Sleep is closely connected to mental and emotional health and has demonstrated links to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other mental health conditions. Sleep deprivation affects your psychological state and mental health, and those with mental health problems are more likely to have insomnia or other sleep disorder.
The Impact of Sleep Deprivation on Mental Health: Poor or insufficient sleep has been found to increase negative emotional responses to stressors and decrease positive emotions6. Sleep deprivation can make it more difficult to cope with stress and regulate emotions, leading to increased anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Chronic sleep problems affect 50% to 80% of patients in a typical psychiatric practice, compared with 10% to 18% of adults in the general U.S. population
What is the recommended amount of sleep?
According to various sources, the recommended amount of sleep for good mental health varies depending on age. Here are some guidelines:
1. Adults:
Adults generally need between seven and nine hours of sleep per night1.
About 1 in 3 people in the U.S. report difficulty sleeping at least one night per week.
2. Teens:
Teens typically need 8-10 hours of sleep per night.
3. Older Adults:
Older adults (65 years and older) need between 7-8 hours of sleep per night.
4. Optimal Amount of Sleep for Good Mental Health:
A recent study found that seven hours of sleep per night was optimal for good mental health.
Getting the right amount of sleep is important for cognitive function and mental health.
Best Practices to Promote Sleep and Mental Health:
Establish a consistent sleep schedule and bedtime routine.
Create a sleep-conducive environment by keeping the bedroom dark, quiet, and cool.
Limit screen time before bed and avoid caffeine and alcohol.
Encourage physical activity during the day, which can improve sleep quality and mental health.
Provide access to mental health resources, such as employee assistance programs (EAPs) and counseling services.
Educate employees about mental health and the importance of sleep.
Foster a supportive work environment that prioritizes work-life balance and stress management.
To promote good mental health, it is recommended to establish a consistent sleep schedule and bedtime routine, create a sleep-conducive environment, limit screen time before bed, and encourage physical activity during the day. It is important to note that the amount of sleep needed can vary depending on the individual. However, consistently getting enough sleep is crucial for maintaining good mental health. Poor or insufficient sleep has been found to increase negative emotional responses to stressors and decrease positive emotions