American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) Practice Exam 2025 - Free ABPN Practice Questions and Study Guide

The most common effect of depression on sleep patterns is early morning awakening. This phenomenon occurs when individuals who are depressed find themselves waking up earlier than desired and being unable to return to sleep. This is often associated with feelings of distress or anxiety that can accompany depressive episodes.

In the context of depression, sleep disturbances are a prevalent feature. Early morning awakening reflects a disruption in the sleep architecture and a shift in the body's circadian rhythms, as those affected may enter a state of hyperarousal or heightened emotional stress, making it difficult for them to maintain sleep. The experience of waking up too early is not only frustrating but can also exacerbate feelings of fatigue and hopelessness, which are commonly experienced in depression.

Understanding this symptom is critical for clinicians as it helps in diagnosing and managing depression more effectively, providing insight into the broader impact of mood disorders on overall health.