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. 2024 May 14;14(5):519.
doi: 10.3390/jpm14050519.

Deciphering the Link: Correlating REM Sleep Patterns with Depressive Symptoms via Consumer Wearable Technology

Cătălina Angela Crișan  1 , Roland Stretea  2 , Maria Bonea  1 , Vadim Fîntînari  3 , Ioan Marian Țața  4 , Alexandru Stan  5 , Ioana Valentina Micluția  1 , Răzvan Mircea Cherecheș  6 , Zaki Milhem  1
Affiliations

Deciphering the Link: Correlating REM Sleep Patterns with Depressive Symptoms via Consumer Wearable Technology

Cătălina Angela Crișan et al. J Pers Med. .

Abstract

This study investigates the correlation between REM sleep patterns, as measured by the Apple Watch, and depressive symptoms in an undiagnosed population. Employing the Apple Watch for data collection, REM sleep duration and frequency were monitored over a specified period. Concurrently, participants' depressive symptoms were evaluated using standardized questionnaires. The analysis, primarily using Spearman's correlation, revealed noteworthy findings. A significant correlation was observed between an increased REM sleep proportion and higher depressive symptom scores, with a correlation coefficient of 0.702, suggesting a robust relationship. These results highlight the potential of using wearable technology, such as the Apple Watch, in early detection and intervention for depressive symptoms, suggesting that alterations in REM sleep could serve as preliminary indicators of depressive tendencies. This approach offers a non-invasive and accessible means to monitor and potentially preempt the progression of depressive disorders. This study's implications extend to the broader context of mental health, emphasizing the importance of sleep assessment in routine health evaluations, particularly for individuals exhibiting early signs of depressive symptoms.

Keywords: Apple Watch; REM sleep; depression; personalized management.

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Conflict of interest statement

Fîntînari (CEO of SC STEEPSOFT AI SRL) was involved in providing proprietary software used in this study. As part of the grant agreement, SC STEEPSOFT AI SRL received funding for software development. No company profit was involved. No interpretation of data or formulation of conclusions was conducted by Fîntînari. The other authors declare no conflicts of interest. The funders had no role in the design of this study; in the collection, analyses, or interpretation of data; in the writing of the manuscript; or in the decision to publish the results.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Histograms of BDI score averages.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Histogram of REM sleep coefficients.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Scatter plot of BDI score averages vs. REM sleep coefficients.
Figure 4
Figure 4
Q–Q plot of BDI score averages.
Figure 5
Figure 5
Q–Q plot of REM sleep coefficients.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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