Others seem to lack the normal natural cycle, napping at irregular intervals throughout a 24 hour period. Aging Aging makes sleep more fragile, even in healthy older people. Often sleep comes more slowly and is more easily disrupted by noise, light, or trips to the bathroom. This may result in frequent dozing during the day, to compensate for restless nights. It is not true, however, that older people need less sleep.
Depression There is a strong link between depression and sleep disturbances.
Insomnia, especially when when characterized by early waking, can be a symptom of depression. In some cases, depression seems to be a side-effect of extended sleep problems. The constant fatigue that results can drain energy reserves and eventually lead to feelings of depression. Hormonal Changes in Women Changes in sleep patterns that diminish the quality of sleep are often associated with the changing phases of the menstrual cycle, resulting in increased tension and irritability. While these changes usually disappear shortly after menstruation begins, some women suffer lingering sleep problems and even chronic insomnia.