Possible chronic fatigue syndrome?

[Georgiamiaf]

I'm currently on 100mg sertraline for depression and I have always struggled with excessive tiredness. When I say excessive I mean excessive I can sleep for more than 16 hours easily and sometimes have another sleep in the day. All the peopl I have spoken to have just put it down to depression but I really don't think it is. I don't think depression can make you this tired can it? The medication has really helped me but my sleeping is just not getting any better. I've had blood tests, tried exercising, changing my routine and nothing helps. Could it be chronic fatigue syndrome?

Any advice would help. Thanks

[MSGSTL]

Hi Georgiamiaf!

I can relate. Sometimes I will sleep 24 hours in a row. My longest episode was 36 hours! No bathroom breaks, no water, nothing. I found out that one of my medications was partly responsible. I stopped taking it and it helped considerably. However, I still have episodes where I will sleep 18-24 hours straight. For this I am going to do a sleep study. This will determine if I have sleep apnea or something which affects my REM sleep. Like you, I don't feel rested after 10 hours of sleep. That's why the sleep study. It will determine my sleep patterns and inform me as to how much REM sleep I'm getting. Depression can definitely play a role as well as the Zoloft you are taking. Having something to look forward to in the morning can a make big difference. New breakfast food, morning activities, something scary even! Perhaps you could get a referral to see a sleep doctor as well as trying a different SSRI. Sleep is so important, it is imperative for good health. I think you should get out of bed and tackle this mother head on!

Here's to a good night sleep. Sweet dreams...

-MSGSTL

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Depression will certainly cause you to be unmotivated and sleep alot for escape. Force yourself to cook, clean and work. It will only be if it you in the end.