Sleep-Wake Project: pattern disturbances in individuals with schizophrenia and their first degree relatives

The objective of this research is to advance substantially knowledge about sleep-wake pattern abnormalities in schizophrenia. 

Sleep disturbance has been recognised as a clinical feature of schizophrenia for more than a century.  It remains poorly understood in this clinical group, despite findings which show that sleep abnormalities cause significant interference to patients’ treatment and qualify of life because of inappropriately timed intake of medication, missed appointments and social withdrawal (Wulff et al, 2006). 

Studies in healthy people also show that abnormal sleep cycles have a negative impact on physical health, by heightening the risk of heart-disease, diabetes, obesity and cancer, and on mental health, by being associated with depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation, all of which occur at a much higher rate in individuals with schizophrenia.

Contacts

Researcher Dr Flavie Waters Phone +61 8 9347 6438