Anxiety disorders are relatively common, affecting around 40 million American adults each year, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. While the causes of anxiety disorders are not totally understood, researchers believe that biological, social and chemical factors play an important role in their development. One possible chemical cause of anxiety may be a deficiency in melatonin production, says naturopathic doctor Pat Elliott, of Elliott Health Care Associates in Bellingham, Washington.
About Anxiety
Anxiety disorders cause serious impairment to your physical and mental well-being. While there are several types of clinical anxiety disorders, most of these conditions share similar symptoms--namely, excessive worry, fear, uncertainty, feelings of dread or tension when confronted with specific situations, irritability, and restlessness. Additionally, people with anxiety commonly suffer from physical disturbances such as appetite changes and sleep difficulties. In fact, anxiety-related insomnia is often-cyclical, as insomnia can actually increase feelings of anxiety, according to DukeHealth.org. Melatonin deficiencies may be to blame in certain cases of anxiety-related insomnia.
Importance of Melatonin
Melatonin is an important hormone secreted by your pineal gland, located deep within your brain. Most people associate melatonin with sleep, however, sleep is not the only function of melatonin. Melatonin has antioxidant effects and regulates sex hormone production, which can have an effect on mood and behavior. Additionally, Elliott points out that melatonin deficiencies can result in mood disturbances such as depression and anxiety and symptoms of anxiety such as insomnia. As you age, your body produces less melatonin, which may explain why elderly people have sleep problems, says Elliott.
Benefits of Melatonin for Anxiety
One of melatonin's main potential benefits for patients suffering from anxiety disorders is improved quality of sleep. In their book, "Overcoming Anxiety for Dummies," clinical psychologists Charles H. Elliott and Laura L. Smith suggest that melatonin may be beneficial for people with anxiety disorders, because it can help regulate your natural sleep rhythm and help you fall asleep more easily. However, like most medications, herbs and natural supplements, melatonin is not a cure for anxiety.
Warning
Avoid bright light while taking melatonin supplements. According to authors and psychiatrists David Mischoulon and Jerrold F. Rosenbaum in their book, "Natural Medications for Psychiatric Disorders: Considering the Alternatives," exposure to bright light can cancel out the beneficial effects of melatonin and may cause visual impairments. Consult your doctor before taking a melatonin supplement.
References
- National Institute of Mental Health: Anxiety Disorders
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Anxiety Disorders: Causes
- Elliott Healthcare: Melatonin Deficiency
- DukeHealth.org: A Vicious Cycle: Insomnia, Anxiety and Depression
- "Natural Medications for Psychiatric Disorders: Considering the Alternatives"; David Mischoulon, M.D., Ph.D., and Jerrold F. Rosenbaum, M.D.; 2008
- "Overcoming Anxiety for Dummies"; Charles H. Elliott, Ph.D., and Laura L. Smith, Ph.D.; 2010
