Investigation of the relationship between Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) and symptoms of depression and anxiety

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a sleep-related respiratory disease characterized by recurrent upper airway obstructions leading to episodes of hypopnea or apnea. OSAS has also been found to be associated with some psychiatric disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and depression. The aim of the study is to examine the relationship between depression and anxiety in individuals diagnosed with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS). 61 (female n=24 male n=37) individuals diagnosed with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome between the ages of 18-70 were included in the study. Sociodemographic information form, Beck Depression Inventory and Beck Anxiety Inventory were used to obtain data in the study. SPSS 25.0 was used for data analysis. OSAS was mild in 19.7%, moderate in 41.0%, and severe in 39.3% of the participants. After OSAS diagnosis 59% of the participants received treatment. Partıcıpant rate diagnosed with depression or anxiety is 19.7%. It was found that anxiety levels differed according to gender and women with OSAS had higher anxiety levels. It was determined that the depression levels differed only depending on the education level. A strong and positive relationship was found between depression and anxiety in individuals with OSAS. Accordingly, as depression levels increase/decrease in individuals with OSAS, their anxiety levels increase/decrease.