Page 18 - AN-4-1

Advanced Neurology The rising impact of sleep disorders in the post-pandemic era

the phenomenon known as “coronasomnia” or “COVID- Table 1. Inclusion and exclusion criteria for studies on
somnia,” further underscoring the complex relationship post‑pandemic sleep disorders
between sleep and mental health. As societies navigate Inclusion criteria Exclusion criteria
the complexities of the post-pandemic era, it is becoming
increasingly crucial to investigate the emergence of unique Individuals of all ages and sexes Studies focusing exclusively
on non-human participants
affected by or experiencing sleep
sleep disorders and their link to mental well-being. This pattern alterations or sleep disorders or populations that are not
comprehensive overview aims to delve into the defining during or after the COVID-19 impacted by COVID-19.
characteristics, etiology, diagnostic methods, treatment pandemic.
modalities, and preventive measures for common sleep Studies focusing on the impact of Studies not directly linked to
disorders, shedding light on their widespread impact COVID-19 on sleep quality, sleep sleep patterns, sleep disorders,
across diverse demographic groups and highlighting the disorders (including insomnia, sleep or mental health impact
importance of proactive management in enhancing the apnea, and restless legs syndrome), during or after the COVID-19
pandemic.
and related mental health issues
overall quality of life. (anxiety, depression, and PTSD).
2. Methods Studies conducted during or following Studies lack defined
the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. methodologies, data, or
A systematic literature review approach was employed to outcomes related to sleep or
determine the prevalence of sleep disorders and their effect mental health.
on behavior before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Both qualitative and quantitative Studies conducted exclusively
We conducted a comprehensive search across multiple studies, including surveys, before the onset of the
COVID-19 pandemic.
observational studies, cohort studies,
databases, including PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and and clinical trials, evaluate sleep
Google Scholar, to identify pertinent studies published patterns and associated factors.
between 2018 and 2024. Our search strategy included Studies reporting on changes in sleep Studies that are not published
keywords such as “Coronasomnia,” “COVID-somnia,” duration, sleep quality, prevalence in English, unless translations
“Anxiety,” “Depression,” and “Post-COVID.” The search of sleep disorders, mental health are provided for review.
process involved multiple stages. Initially, we conducted outcomes associated with sleep
broad searches using the predefined keywords across the disturbances, and the relationship
between COVID-19 and sleep.
selected databases. We reviewed the titles and abstracts
of potential studies to determine their relevance after Abbreviation: PTSD: Post-traumatic stress disorder.
identifying them. This initial search yielded 173 articles. by the virus were particularly affected by this disruption.
After eliminating duplicates, 86 distinct studies remained. During this period, the prevalence of sleep disorders,
Subsequently, we reviewed the titles and abstracts to notably insomnia, saw a marked increase, which was
screen for relevance based on our predefined inclusion and primarily attributed to increased stress and anxiety that
exclusion criteria. This screening resulted in the exclusion resulted from the pandemic’s uncertainties.
of 87 studies that did not fulfill the criteria. We contrasted
the prevalence and patterns of sleep disorders before and The impact on mental health was equally profound, as
after the pandemic, highlighting any significant trends or evidenced by the increased prevalence of post-traumatic
changes. In addition, we investigated the emerging unique stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. The
sleep disorders during and after the pandemic, commonly pandemic’s disruption of daily life and social isolation
referred to as “Coronasomnia” or “COVID-somnia.” The measures contributed to a decrease in overall psychological
inclusion and exclusion criteria are delineated in Table 1 resilience. Terms such as “coronasomnia” were coined to
below. encompass the spectrum of sleep-related issues intensified
by the pandemic’s stressors. Beyond the immediate effects,
3. Results a substantial number of COVID-19 survivors continue
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly disrupted to experience insomnia and other sleep disturbances,
sleep patterns and exacerbated mental health challenges emphasizing the long-term consequences on sleep health.
worldwide. Before the pandemic, sleep habits typically The research highlights the intricate relationship between
followed more consistent patterns, with fewer interruptions sleep quality and mental well-being, where poor sleep
and higher overall sleep quality. However, COVID-19 worsens existing mental health conditions and vice versa.
onset resulted in significant alterations: individuals began Comprehensive strategies that prioritize both mental
staying awake later into the night, slept for extended hours, health support and sleep management are necessary to
and experienced more frequent awakenings. Health-care address these challenges. Individualized interventions
personnel and individuals who were directly impacted backed by ongoing research are essential in mitigating

Volume 4 Issue 1 (2025) 12 doi: 10.36922/an.4006