How do sleep problems affect thought, memory, and emotions? We spend approximately one-third of our life asleep and yet rarely think about how important it is to our overall well-being. Many restorative and protective processes occur during sleep so it is not surprising that lack of sleep, or even normal length but poor-quality sleep, can have a negative impact on our well-being. Poor concentration, a ‘foggy’ mind, and an inability to control emotions are common consequences of compromised sleep. In chronic cases, where sleep problems occur consistently over long periods of time (e.g., insomnia), there can even be a greater risk of developing a mental illness. Despite knowing about the negative consequences of compromised sleep for many years, we are only just starting to understand some of the mechanisms that might explain these associations.
How do sleep problems affect thought, memory, and emotions?
We spend approximately one-third of our life asleep and yet rarely think about how important it is to our overall well-being. Many restorative and protective processes occur during sleep so it is not surprising that lack of sleep, or even normal length but poor-quality sleep, can have a negative impact on our well-being. Poor concentration, a ‘foggy’ mind, and an inability to control emotions are common consequences of compromised sleep. In chronic cases, where sleep problems occur consistently over long periods of time (e.g., insomnia), there can even be a greater risk of developing a mental illness. Despite knowing about the negative consequences of compromised sleep for many years, we are only just starting to understand some of the mechanisms that might explain these associations.
AI-generated content may present inaccurate or offensive content that does not represent bartleby’s views.
Unlock instant AI solutions
Tap the button
to generate a solution
