Relationship between changes in REM sleep parameters and depressive symptoms in a population sample (EPISONO - 4th EDITION)

Abstract

Introduction: studies show that changes in sleep parameters can be a predictive factor for several psychiatric pathologies such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress and the use of drugs of abuse. Sleep disturbances are present in up to 90% of patients with depressive conditions, and may explain many of the mood disturbances that are characteristic of this psychopathology. Individuals with depressive symptoms exhibit several changes in the REM sleep pattern. Investigations suggest that depression is related to the dysfunction of a network of structures that also regulate REM sleep, indicating a link between dysregulation of REM sleep and the course of depression. Objectives: this study aims to analyze changes related to REM sleep in people with symptoms of depression in a population sample from the city of São Paulo (EPISONO 4th edition). In order to investigate the relationship of changes in REM sleep parameters and the severity of depressive symptoms, and to explore the potential of these variables as a diagnostic tool for depressive disorder. Methods: data were collected by the Epidemiological Study of Sleep in the City of São Paulo, conducted between 2018 and 2019 (4th edition). Generalized models for cross-sectional study (GLZMM) will be used to analyze possible associations between changes in REM sleep parameters and depressive symptoms. If associations are found, we intend to reinforce the importance of Sleep Medicine techniques as an adjunct to both the detection and treatment of mental disorders, especially depressive disorders.