What relationship did Mia's doctor suggest between her depression and sleep issues?

The optimal interpretation of the doctor’s suggestion regarding Mia's depression and sleep issues is that Mia is spending too much time in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. This connection is essential as it highlights how specific sleep patterns can be influenced by mental health conditions like depression.

In the context of psychological research, it is understood that individuals suffering from depression often experience disturbances in their sleep architecture, which includes alterations in the duration and cycles of REM sleep. Excessive REM sleep can be associated with the emotional disturbances of depression, leading to a cycle where mood and sleep issues exacerbate one another.

This understanding emphasizes the importance of examining sleep quality and stages when addressing psychological concerns. The notion that Mia's doctor suggested this specific relationship indicates a focus on the physiological aspects of her mental health, which are crucial for effective treatment and management strategies.