We may not think about sleep too much, but we know that it is beneficial in some way. We often feel ‘out of sorts’ after a bad night’s sleep but are ready to take on anything after a good night’s sleep. So what are the benefits of sleep for our mental health and why is sleep so important?
We may not think about sleep too much, but we know that it is beneficial in some way. We often feel ‘out of sorts’ after a bad night’s sleep but are ready to take on anything after a good night’s sleep. So what are the benefits of sleep for our mental health and why is sleep so important?
You’ve probably noticed that the more tired you are, the more difficult it is for you to concentrate on something. When we lack sleep, we find it hard to take in vast amounts of information. If you are well rested, you will have a clearer mind and a sharper focus.
There are three stages of forming a memory. The first is acquisition, which is when you introduce the information to your brain. The second stage is consolidation; this is when the memory is strengthened. The final stage is recall, which is when – you guessed it – we access the information that we stored. Acquisition and recall happen when we are awake, and consolidation happens when we’re asleep. When we are sleeping our brain consolidates and organises our memories, which helps us to remember what we learned the previous day.
Have you ever noticed how the little things bother you more if you haven’t slept long enough the night before? Researchers suggest that sleep deprivation makes us more irritable and we react negatively to minor annoyances and interruptions. A survey from the American Psychological Association also reported that adults who slept fewer than eight hours a night were more likely to report symptoms of stress than those who slept eight or more hours.
Need more convincing to give up your study and work all-nighters? In addition to the mental health benefits of sleep, it can also help your physical health. Studies have suggested that there is a link between prolonged sleep deprivation and health problems like heart disease and diabetes.
Your sleep needs may vary, but most adults need between seven and eight hours of sleep each night, whereas children and teenagers will need more sleep.
If you are struggling, call SuicideLine Victoria 1300 651 251.
If it is an emergency, call 000.
Feeling anxious before stressful events and situations is a normal part of life. For many of us, these feelings are usually temporary and go away once the event has ended. Anxiety is when those anxious feelings do not go away easily and stick around. Find out more about the symptoms of anxiety and what can cause anxiety.
Read more
Depression is an intense feeling of sadness or low mood that lasts for a long time, sometimes weeks, months or years. If you are depressed, it can start to interfere with your personal and work life, your wellbeing, and your physical health. Find out more about the symptoms of depression and how you can get help.
Read more
Mindfulness teaches us to observe the present moment with openness and curiosity
Read more
Schizophrenia is a mental illness that affects thoughts, behaviour, speech, and perception. Read on to understand the symptoms and treatment of schizophrenia.
Read more
In this resource, we cover what can cause a panic attack, common symptoms to look out for, and how to cope if you experience a panic attack.
Read more
A simple but effective technique to reduce stress and increase relaxation.
Read more
