If you have a habit of staying up late, consider changing your bedtime routine. A recent study published in the Journal of Behavioral Psychiatry found that going to bed later increases the risk of anxiety and sadness.
The study focused on healthy adults and compared those who had a regular sleep routine to those who were sleep deprived. The results were clear: those who did not get enough sleep experienced higher levels of anxiety, depressive symptoms, and general emotional distress. Even if they had no history of mental illness, sleep deprivation had a noticeable effect on their emotional well-being.
But why does this occur? According to experts, insufficient sleep impairs the brain’s ability to regulate emotions, making it more difficult to deal with stress and maintain a pleasant mood. In short, late nights may be more than simply a poor habit; they may also endanger your mental health.
Another study supports this. A study of over 74,000 adults in the United Kingdom discovered that night owls—those who stay up late and sleep in—were 20% to 40% more likely to suffer mental health disorders than those who went to bed earlier.
So, how can you protect your emotional well-being? Begin by prioritizing a consistent sleep pattern, aiming for at least seven to eight hours of sleep per night. If you have trouble sleeping, try setting up a calming evening routine, minimizing screen time before bed, and keeping your bedroom comfortable and dark.
Your mental health is worth it, and it all begins with something as easy as going to bed on time. After all, getting a good night’s sleep could be the key to feeling happier and healthier.
