Sleep and Mood

Most probably you know that sleep has an effect on mood. If you spend a night without sleep, you will be in bad mood the next day. Many studies show that there is a close link between sleep and mood. Even partial sleep deprivation can have a considerable effect of mood and do the opposite of boost your mood. If you do not get adequate sleep for a week, you will feel angry, sad, stressed and mentally exhausted.  Once you resume normal sleep, you will get a dramatic improvement in mood. This shows clearly that sleep and mood are interrelated.

What Are The Reasons For Good/Bad Moods

There are many factors that affect your mood. Weather changes, food, exercise, hormonal changes, light and color can influence your mood. Depending on the changes in these factors, they become the reasons for good and bad moods. For instance, some people feel depressed in cold and rainy weather. Similarly, those who take comfort food more frequently are more likely to suffer from mood problems. Sleep is one of the most important reasons for good/bad moods.

Understand the Effects of Sleep on Mood

The effects of sleep on mood include irritability, decreased motivation and depression. There is no doubt that sleep is one of the most important factors for overall wellbeing of people. Studies show that at least seven hours sleep is essential for all. If you sleep one hour less than seven hours, you have 50% chance of having a bad mood.  The effects of sleep on mood can also affect your physical health, productivity and relationships. It can reduce your emotional intelligence, decision making and constructive thinking skills.
Research studies have also found out the positive effects of sleep on mood. People who get adequate sleep are friendlier, empathetic and have a good mood when compared to sleep deprived people.

Importance of Sleep in Treating Bad Mood

Sleep and mood are interconnected. Sleep deprivation can cause fatigue, exhaustion and forgetfulness. If you feel tires and exhausted, you will feel sad, angry and more stressed. Lack of sleep affects the ability of brain to solve problems and makes it difficult to complete the tasks.  If you want to get rid of bad mood, you need to realize the importance of sleep first. Taking steps to improve your sleep can help you get relief from negative moods and depression. Even if you do not have any underlying sleep problems, taking measures to get adequate sleep can help improve your mood and general well being.

Young mothers who need to take care of babies, students who are studying for exams and those who take alcohol more frequently should understand the importance of sleep. Sleep deprivation will not only affect their mood, but it also makes them less productive. They will feel cranky and irritable. Developing some good habits and following some measures can help you get a good night’s sleep.

It is important to set a regular bedtime. Don’t break this routine on weekends and holidays. Develop the habit of waking up at the same time daily. Boosting melatonin production at night can help you get good sleep. Turning off your TV and computer at least one hour before going to bed can help increase melatonin production. Listen to music or practice some relaxation exercises. This helps you get sound sleep, which in turn helps improve your mood.