A new study is out, and the results aren’t terribly shocking…
Sleep deprivation makes people more reactive to stress. When you don’t get enough rest, stress and exhaustion can ‘have larger effects on positive emotional reactivity,’ meaning that your lack of sleep directly impacts your mood and ability to see the good around you.
About 50-70 million Americans suffer from a sleep disorder (that’s 1 in 3 adults), so if constant tiredness, increased irritability, and lack of energy plague you, you are not alone. The problem is that quality sleep is not a luxury, it is the foundation for your overall health. Sleep deprivation sets off a chain reaction that can manifest in different mental health challenges.
The Science of Sleep
Sleep helps improve a number of brain functions which is why adequate sleep is a pivotal part of overall wellness. Your brain cycles through different stages of sleep. In the deep phases, it slows down with powerful delta waves, aiding in physical restoration and immune support.
Sleep is divided into cycles, and each cycle consists of different stages. The two main types of sleep are REM (Rapid Eye Movement) and non-REM sleep. Throughout the night, you cycle through these stages multiple times.
Non-REM Sleep:
Stage 1: This is the transition from wakefulness to sleep and usually lasts a few minutes. It’s a light sleep stage.
Stage 2: A slightly deeper stage where your heart rate slows, and your body temperature decreases.
Stages 3 and 4 (Slow-Wave Sleep): These are deep sleep stages, crucial for physical restoration, immune function, and overall well-being.
REM Sleep:
Rapid Eye Movement (REM): This is the dreaming stage. During REM sleep, your brain becomes more active, and most dreaming occurs. It’s associated with memory consolidation, learning, and emotional regulation. Brain Waves:
Delta Waves: These slow, high-amplitude waves dominate during deep sleep stages. Theta and Alpha Waves: Present during lighter sleep stages and the transition into sleep.
Memory Consolidation:
During REM sleep, the brain is highly active, and this stage is particularly associated with memory consolidation. It helps process and store information gathered throughout the day.
Neurotransmitter Regulation:
Sleep plays a crucial role in regulating neurotransmitters, including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which are essential for mood, emotion, and cognitive function.
Hormone Release:
Sleep influences the release of hormones, including growth hormone, which is crucial for physical growth, muscle repair, and overall development.
Brain Detoxification:
During sleep, the glymphatic system becomes more active, facilitating the removal of waste products and toxins from the brain. This process is thought to play a role in preventing neurodegenerative diseases.
Energy Conservation:
Sleep allows the brain to conserve energy by reducing activity in certain regions. This energy conservation is essential for optimal cognitive functioning during waking hours.
Emotional Regulation:
Adequate sleep is linked to emotional resilience and the ability to cope with stress. Sleep deprivation can contribute to increased emotional reactivity and difficulty regulating emotions.
Get Support For Your Mental Health To Improve Sleep
Quality sleep not just a nightly ritual but a fundamental part of your overall well-being. Adequate and restful sleep is the key to unlocking your full potential, both mentally and physically. There are over 80 different types of sleep disorders and they can all trigger mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. Reach out for support from our team to improve your overall quality of life.