Can depression cause one to talk during sleep?

Question

Hi doctor,

I wanted to ask about my wife’s problems. She is 37 years old, and she seems to be talking during sleep. I noticed it a few months back, and mostly at midnight, she seemed to talk or cry while sleeping. Is it due to any mental issues like depression? Or is she facing any major disorder? How to help her now? Should we test her for some health issues? Can this be treated? Should I tell her about this?

Please help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

It could be due to some overwhelming emotions, which could or could not be because of depression. Is there any past event that has led to overstress or any recent death in the family, leading to feelings of loneliness? A proper history would be better to discuss with her. In the case of normal conditions, it could be due to bad dreams, too. So, the severity that these episodes are affecting her daily life routine also needs to be followed. Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness (do look for this major sign). Differential diagnosis is depression, and the treatment plan includes anti-anxiety drugs at night before sleep.

I hope this helps you.

Revert in case of queries.

Regards.