Sleep is as essential to our body and mind as food and water. But often, when we sleep too much, it's not just fatigue that's the cause. In fact, it could be a sign of a mental health problem. People often dismiss excessive sleepiness, thinking, "Maybe I'm just too tired." However, persistent excessive sleepiness, or hypersomnia, can be a symptom of certain mental conditions, such as depression or stress.

Clinical psychologist Malini Saba explains that besides excessive sleepiness, there are five other important symptoms that indicate mental illness. These symptoms should not be ignored. Let's find out what these symptoms are.

Feeling lethargic throughout the day:
If you feel sluggish and tired throughout the day, even after sleeping for 8-10 hours, this is not normal. Such symptoms include frequent cravings, difficulty concentrating, and a feeling of heaviness in the body. This condition can often be associated with mental fatigue or depression.

When mental health is affected, a person gradually begins to withdraw from their daily routines. This can lead to a lack of interest in work or studies, and avoiding even minor responsibilities. Sleep becomes a safe outlet in these situations.

Feeling Depressed
If you experience persistent sadness or empty feelings, along with excessive sleepiness, this could be a serious symptom. During this time, the person finds no joy in anything and feels isolated. These symptoms are often seen in depression or chronic stress.

Irregular sleep schedules
Stress isn't always the cause of excessive sleepiness. Some people struggle to sleep due to stress, while others sleep during the day and stay up all night. This disrupts the day-night balance. This could be a sign of a problem with the body's biological clock.

Why does this happen?
Psychologically, excessive sleep is often a way to protect oneself from stress or overthinking. This may not be true for everyone. It's not laziness, but rather a sign that the brain needs rest.

PC: SaamTV