PREVALENCE AND REPERCUSSIONS OF INSOMNIA IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC PAIN: ASSOCIATION WITH DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS

Abstract

Chronic pain represents a major public health problem and is frequently associated with comorbidities that exacerbate its clinical and psychosocial impact. Among these, insomnia stands out as one of the most prevalent disorders, exerting a significant influence on pain perception, emotional functioning, and quality of life. Recent evidence also indicates a close association between sleep disorders and depressive symptoms, particularly in patients with persistent painful conditions. In this context, the present study aimed to analyze the prevalence of insomnia in patients with chronic pain and to discuss its clinical repercussions and its association with depressive symptoms, based on the current scientific literature. This is a narrative literature review conducted through searches in the PubMed/MEDLINE database, using descriptors related to insomnia, chronic pain, and depression. Observational studies, narrative and systematic reviews, bibliometric analyses, and diagnostic reference documents addressing adults with chronic pain and sleep disturbances, with or without associated depressive symptoms, were included. The findings demonstrate a high prevalence of insomnia in this population, often exceeding that observed in the general population, as well as a consistent association with greater pain intensity, worse functional status, and higher frequency of depressive symptoms. The literature supports a bidirectional relationship between pain, insomnia, and depression, mediated by shared neurophysiological and psychosocial mechanisms. It is concluded that the recognition and systematic management of insomnia are essential for a comprehensive clinical approach to patients with chronic pain, potentially contributing to better functional and emotional outcomes.