Excessive Sleep and Its Impact on Mental Health: A Guide

Excessive sleep duration can lead to physical and mental lethargy?

Hello Doctor, I previously took Funnix for a few months, and my depressive tendencies improved somewhat, but I developed severe social anxiety.
Recently, I switched to venlafaxine, starting with 37.5 mg twice daily, and later increased to 75 mg once at night.
In the past few weeks, I have been awake for less than 10 hours a day, lying in bed feeling completely drained and lacking motivation.
Even when I do get up, I don't feel like doing much and have little interest in anything.
I feel indifferent about attending classes, which is severely affecting my academic performance.
I also don't feel particularly hungry and have gone two days without eating.
My mood worsens because I feel useless lying around, leading to feelings of despair, and sometimes I experience tremors for no apparent reason.
However, I have always been somewhat lazy by nature, so I want to ask if this is a result of the medication making me more lethargic, and if there are ways to improve my situation besides changing medications or relying on strong willpower, as the medication has indeed been effective for my social anxiety.
Thank you, Doctor.

Mei Youren, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/15

Dr. Zhang Gengjia reply Psychiatry

Dear Sir/Madam,
From your letter, it is evident that you are experiencing discomfort and distress due to your tendencies toward depression and severe social anxiety, which require a professional physician's diagnosis.
1.
Facing an uncertain future, psychosomatic disorders are common in modern individuals.
This is a chronic condition that requires long-term treatment for recovery.
2.
Psychosomatic disorders are chronic illnesses characterized by episodes of exacerbation, remission, recovery, and relapse.
More than half of the patients may experience a recurrence of symptoms even after they have improved.
Due to individual differences in physiology, it may take time to determine the most suitable medication; it is not possible to simply attribute better effects to one medication over another.
Please be patient and cooperate with your physician.
3.
Regarding Funnix or venlafaxine, each medication may have side effects.
It is advisable to note the duration and frequency of any adverse symptoms you experience and discuss them with your physician.
4.
In addition to medication and psychotherapy, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive, anesthesia-free, highly safe treatment option that does not require hospitalization.
It can improve anxiety and depressive moods.
For patients with treatment-resistant depression or poor medication response, rTMS treatment has shown significant improvement in depressive symptoms.
Our clinic is open for consultations from Monday to Friday, both in the morning and afternoon.
I recommend that you consider visiting the clinic for a personal evaluation of your symptoms by a physician, so that we can collaboratively discuss the best decision for you.
Wishing you mental and physical well-being.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Chang Geng-Jia
Department of Psychiatry

Reply Date: 2022/03/15

More Info

Excessive sleep and its impact on mental health is a complex issue that can significantly affect one's daily life and overall well-being. From your description, it seems that you are experiencing a combination of symptoms that may be related to both the medications you are taking and underlying mental health conditions, such as depression and social anxiety.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that medications like venlafaxine, which is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), can have varying effects on individuals. While they can be effective in treating anxiety and depression, they may also lead to side effects, including lethargy, fatigue, and changes in appetite. The fact that you are experiencing excessive sleep and a lack of motivation could be a side effect of the medication, especially if the dosage has recently increased. It’s crucial to communicate these symptoms to your healthcare provider, as they may need to adjust your medication or explore alternative treatments.

Excessive sleep can sometimes be a symptom of depression itself. When individuals feel overwhelmed by their mental health struggles, they may retreat into sleep as a coping mechanism. This can create a cycle where excessive sleep leads to decreased motivation and engagement in daily activities, which can further exacerbate feelings of hopelessness and despair. The feelings of despair you mentioned, particularly the sense of being "useless" or "lazy," are common in depressive episodes and can be quite distressing.

To address your concerns, here are several strategies that may help improve your situation:
1. Establish a Routine: Try to create a daily schedule that includes set times for waking up, meals, and activities. This can help regulate your sleep-wake cycle and encourage more consistent energy levels throughout the day.

2. Physical Activity: Incorporating even light physical activity into your day can significantly improve mood and energy levels. Start with short walks or gentle stretching exercises. Physical activity releases endorphins, which can help combat feelings of lethargy and improve overall mental health.

3. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga can help reduce anxiety and improve your mental state. These techniques can also help you feel more present and engaged in your daily life.

4. Social Support: Although social anxiety can make it challenging, try to maintain connections with friends or family members. Engaging in social activities, even in small doses, can help combat feelings of isolation and improve your mood.

5. Nutrition: Pay attention to your diet. Eating regular, balanced meals can help regulate your energy levels and mood. If you find it difficult to eat, consider smaller, more frequent meals or snacks.

6. Limit Screen Time Before Bed: Reducing exposure to screens in the evening can improve sleep quality. Instead, engage in relaxing activities such as reading or listening to music.

7. Professional Help: If your symptoms persist or worsen, it may be beneficial to consult with a mental health professional. They can provide therapy options, medication management, or other interventions tailored to your needs.

8. Journaling: Keeping a journal can help you process your thoughts and feelings. Writing about your experiences can provide clarity and may help you identify patterns in your mood and behavior.

In conclusion, while medications like venlafaxine can be effective for managing anxiety and depression, they can also lead to side effects that impact your daily life. It’s essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to monitor these effects and make necessary adjustments. Implementing lifestyle changes, seeking social support, and engaging in therapeutic practices can also play a significant role in improving your mental health and overall well-being. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are resources available to help you navigate these challenges.

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