Mood Changes
Most of us have experienced the effects of sleep deprivation at one point or another. You know how it goes. We toss and turn all night long, drift off into a fitful sleep for a couple of hours, and wake up exhausted, irritable, and run down.
It is well-established that sleep deprivation can lead to physical symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. However, research has also shown that sleep deprivation can cause mood changes such as anxiety, depression, and irritability. Interestingly, these mood changes can also lead to physical symptoms such as headaches, gastrointestinal problems, and weight gain.
The link between sleep deprivation and mood changes is complex and not fully understood. However, research suggests that there are several possible mechanisms underlying this relationship. First, sleep deprivation can lead to neuropsychological changes such as deficits in executive function and working memory. These cognitive deficits can lead to negative emotions such as anxiety and depression.
Additionally, sleep deprivation can disrupt the body’s circadian rhythms, which regulate sleep-wake cycles. This disruption of circadian rhythms can also lead to mood changes such as irritability and fatigue. Finally, sleep deprivation can impact the hormones, leading to further mood changes.
