Sleep, anxiety, and depression in abstinent and drinking alcoholics.

A group of alcoholic men were followed-up 8 years after discharge from hospital. The interview included items on sleep, anxiety, and depression. The sample was divided into abstinent and drinking subjects. Sleep data were factor analyzed. Only the Alcohol-Abstinence Sleep Factor significantly correlated with drinking status. The Alcohol-Abstinence Sleep Factor was also the primary correlate of anxiety and depression. Fewer abstinent subjects reported anxiety and depression. Sleep variables, anxiety, and depression are considered as possible markers of relapse in persons treated for alcoholism.