Our Services
Medical Information
Helpful Resources
Published on: 11/13/2025
How are narcolepsy and depression connected?
Narcolepsy and depression may be connected through changes in brain chemicals like orexin, which affect both sleep and mood.
Concerned about your symptoms?
Explanation
Narcolepsy and depression can be linked through changes in brain chemicals. One important chemical is called orexin, which helps control sleep and wakefulness. People with narcolepsy often have low levels of orexin, leading to excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden sleep attacks.
How They Are Connected:
- Orexin Levels: Low orexin levels in narcolepsy may also affect mood, possibly increasing the risk of depression.
- Brain Chemistry: Both conditions involve changes in brain chemicals that regulate sleep and mood. This means that the same parts of the brain might be involved in both narcolepsy and depression.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, please visit 988lifeline.org for support.
(References)
- Mamelak M. (2009). Narcolepsy and depression and the neurobiology of .... Progress in neurobiology, 19654034.
- Lin CC, & Huang TL. (2022). Orexin/hypocretin and major psychiatric disorders. Advances in clinical chemistry, 35953127.
- Pizza F, Magnani M, Indrio C, & Plazzi G. (2014). The hypocretin system and psychiatric disorders. Current psychiatry reports, 24363104.
Tell your friends about us.
We would love to help them too.
For First Time Users
What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?
We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.
Learn more about diseases
Was this page helpful?
Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor's Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.