0651 Sleep Reactivity as a Vulnerability Factor for Depressive Symptoms

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Insomnia and depression are closely linked. While poor sleep is often classified as a symptom of depression, research now supports that insomnia often precedes and predicts the onset of depression. One factor that may explain this relationship is sleep reactivity, or the tendency to experience sleep disturbances in response to stressful life events. Sleep reactivity is considered a vulnerability factor for insomnia. This study aimed to replicate recent findings that suggest sleep reactivity is also independently related to depression. Methods Survey data was collected from 236 U.S. adults (69.1% White, 61.9.3% Female, 18-85 y) regarding demographic information, sleep patterns, and general health and well-being. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CESD). Insomnia symptoms were assessed using the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI). Sleep reactivity was assessed using the Ford Insomnia Response to Stress Test (FIRST). A hierarchical multiple regression was conducted with total CESD scores as the dependent variable. Total ISI scores and gender were entered as covariates in model 1 and total FIRST scores as the predictor variable in model 2. Results The fitted regression for model 1 was statistically significant (R2 = 0.37, F(2,233) = 64.47, p < .001). It was found that both greater ISI and being female gender predicted depression scores (β = 1.04, p < .001, and β = 1.64, p = .05). For model 2, the regression was also significant (R2 = 0.38, F(3,232) = 47.60, p < .001). Greater FIRST scores were related to greater depressive symptoms (β = 0.23, p = .02), even after controlling for both insomnia symptoms and gender. Conclusion Sleep reactivity is independently related to depression symptoms, independent of insomnia. Future studies examining how multiple types of stress reactivity impact an individual’s risk for developing depression should be considered. Support (if any) K23 HL141581