can melatonin cause anxiety

If you’ve ever found yourself tossing and turning in bed, desperately seeking a good night’s sleep, chances are you’ve heard of melatonin.
It’s a popular supplement often touted as a natural remedy for insomnia.
But here’s the thing – some people worry that taking melatonin might actually lead to anxiety.
But can melatonin cause anxiety?
Let’s dive in and explore this topic further.

What is Melatonin?

First, let’s talk about what melatonin actually is.
Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by your body, mainly by the pineal gland in your brain.
It plays a huge role in regulating your sleep-wake cycle, also known as your circadian rhythm.
Melatonin helps signal your entire body that it needs to calm down and get some rest.

How Does Melatonin Work?

When the sun sets and darkness falls over, more melatonin starts being produced by the body.
This increase in melatonin levels helps you feel sleepy and prepares your body for sleep.
On the flip side, when the sun rises and it gets brighter, your melatonin levels drop, signaling to your body that it’s time to wake up.

Can Melatonin Cause Anxiety? – The Link Between Melatonin and Anxiety

Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter – can melatonin cause anxiety? The brief response is: it’s complicated.
There are a few side effects that may be experienced by some people when using melatonin even though generally it is safe for most people when taken at proper dosages and over a short period of time.
But some people might experience side effects, including – you guessed it – anxiety.
Related Read: How to deal with anxiety and depression?

Why Sometimes Melatonin Causes Anxiety

One such reason would be its sedative nature which makes one jittery.
Melatonin does help in sleepiness but some people experience drowsiness & disorientation especially if they either take too much or their body cannot break it down effectively.

Conclusion: Finding Balance

While melatonin can go a long way in managing sleep conditions, one has to approach it cautiously especially if they are often anxious.
If you’re considering adding a little bit of melatonin to your nightly routine, have an open chat with your doctor first through which they’ll advise you accordingly.
Also, if you have any mental health issues such as anxiety, reach out for assistance.
Timely Psychiatry provides caring and professional mental health services to help you.
Contact Timely Psychiatry today for personalized care and support.

Additional Resources and References

FAQs

Can melatonin worsen existing anxiety disorders?

For some people with anxiety disorders, melatonin might exacerbate their symptoms.
It’s always a good idea to consult with a professional before starting any new supplement regimen especially if you have a preexisting condition like anxiety.

Is it safe to take melatonin with anxiety medication?

Mixing melatonin with some anxiety medications can possibly cause adverse reactions.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before combining any supplements or medications.

How can I reduce the risk of anxiety when taking melatonin?

Begin taking small doses of melatonin then gradually increase them if necessary.
Additionally, practicing good sleep hygiene – like maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and creating a nice and calm bedtime routine – can help maximize the benefits of melatonin while minimizing the risk of anxiety.