THE BIDIRECTIONAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN INSOMNIA AND DEPRESSION IN THE DIGITAL AGE: A STRUCTURED NARRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Insomnia and depression are common psychiatric conditions that significantly impact global health. Recent evidence shows a bidirectional relationship between these disorders, influenced  by lifestyle changes and widespread digital technology use. Objective: This structured narrative review analyzes the two -way relationship between insomnia and depression in the digital period, focusing on neurobiological, behavioral, and technology -related mechanisms. Materials and Methods: We conducted a structured narrative review across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. The  review covered peer -reviewed longitudinal studies, systematic reviews, and meta -analyses published over the last 10 to 15 years that focused on digital behaviors such  as screen time and social media use. Because the studies used different methods and reported different results, we used a qualitative synthesis. Results: According to the studies, depression and sleeplessness are tightly related. Depression frequently results in persistent sleep issues, such as poor quality sleep, difficulty falling asleep, and altered sleep patterns, and insomnia can increase the risk of depression. Similar elements,  including abnormalities with the HPA axis, circadian rhythms, and neurotransmitters, link the  two diseases. Sleep issues and an increased risk of depression are also linked to excessive use  of internet -based platforms such as Instagram and TikTok. Conclusions: Insomnia and depression are closely connected and can make each other worse through both biological and behavioral factors. Today, technology also has a big impact on this relationship.  Spotting and treating sleep problems early, along with using technology responsibly, may help  reduce the risk and severity of depression. Adding sleep -focused and technology -aware strategies to mental health care can lead to better results and help prevent problems.