Table of Contents
Overview
Definition of Sleep
Sleep is defined as an active state of unconsciousness characterized by a complex interplay of physiological processes. It is not merely the act of closing one's eyelids; rather, it involves a significant reduction in responsiveness to external stimuli while the brain enters a relative state of rest.[3.1] Humans, like all higher life forms, require sleep, spending approximately one-third of their lives in this state. Despite its universal necessity, the precise functions of sleep remain incompletely understood, with its absence leading to serious physiological consequences.[2.1] The physiological mechanisms underlying sleep include the reticular activating system (RAS), which plays a crucial role in regulating sleep and wakefulness, as well as circadian rhythms that govern various biological processes such as metabolism and temperature.[1.1]Importance of Sleep
Sleep is a fundamental biological necessity, essential for the overall health and well-being of individuals across all age groups, including children, adolescents, and adults. It is recognized as vital for cognitive functioning, mood regulation, mental health, and various aspects of physical health, including cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and metabolic health.[5.1] The significance of sleep extends beyond mere rest; it plays a crucial role in memory consolidation, immune system support, and recovery from injury or illness.[4.1] Adequate sleep is not only important for individual health but also for public safety, as insufficient sleep can lead to increased risks of accidents and injuries due to sleepiness and fatigue.[5.1] Furthermore, the disruption of sleep patterns, particularly through shift work, has been associated with serious health implications, including an increased risk of various medical conditions such as colorectal cancer [11.1] and mood disorders.[13.1] Public health campaigns have been initiated to address misconceptions surrounding sleep, aiming to promote awareness of its importance and counter false beliefs that may impair population health.[9.1] These campaigns are essential, as they can help identify commonly held false beliefs about sleep that lack an evidence base, thereby informing efforts to promote better sleep practices.[9.1] Additionally, involving stakeholders in the development of sleep promotion programs is critical for enhancing their accessibility, scalability, acceptability, and feasibility.[6.1] By specifically asking for input on how to modify factors impacting sleep, these campaigns can effectively motivate behavior change in communities that may prioritize productivity over adequate rest.[6.1] To foster healthy sleep habits, especially in children, establishing consistent bedtime routines and practicing good sleep hygiene are essential strategies. These habits can significantly enhance the quality and quantity of sleep, thereby promoting better health outcomes.[17.1] By prioritizing sleep and addressing the factors that disrupt it, individuals and communities can improve overall health and well-being.History
Cultural Perspectives on Sleep
Cultural beliefs and practices surrounding sleep have evolved significantly throughout history, reflecting diverse interpretations and rituals across various societies. In ancient civilizations such as Egypt and Mesopotamia, sleep was often viewed as divine, intricately linked to dreams, health, and the supernatural, highlighting its importance for survival and spiritual connection.[63.1] The ancient Greeks and Romans also attributed significant cultural and philosophical importance to dreams, believing they carried deep meanings and could serve as messages from the gods or premonitions of future events.[61.1] In indigenous cultures, dreams are frequently seen as a means of connecting with ancestors or receiving guidance from the spirit world, often involving encounters with deceased loved ones or spiritual beings.[62.1] This perspective underscores the belief that dreams are not merely random occurrences but hold significant cultural value and insight. Moreover, the interpretation of sleep and dreams varies widely across cultures, influenced by historical, environmental, and social factors. While the biological definition of sleep remains consistent, its cultural interpretations are diverse, with societies developing unique practices and beliefs surrounding sleep.[64.1] For instance, some cultures have specific sleep rituals or communal sleeping arrangements that reflect their social structures and values.[60.1]Evolution of Sleep Understanding
The understanding of sleep has evolved significantly over time, reflecting changes in societal practices and scientific inquiry. Historically, many cultures engaged in biphasic or segmented sleep, a practice where sleep was divided into two distinct periods. This method was prevalent in preindustrial societies, where individuals would often take a first sleep, known as "premier somme" in France or "primo sonno" in Italy, before waking for a period of activity and then returning to sleep.[42.1] Research suggests that this biphasic pattern may have developed as communities migrated northward, where longer nights disrupted continuous sleep, leading to segmented rest.[43.1] The scientific exploration of sleep began in the 18th century, when many cultures primarily focused on dream interpretation, showing little interest in the health implications of sleep itself.[40.1] It was during this period that scientists started to investigate sleep patterns, marking a significant shift in understanding. However, it was not until the mid-20th century that substantial advancements occurred, particularly with the development of polysomnography (PSG). This technology enabled comprehensive recordings of physiological changes during sleep, including brain waves, eye movements, and respiratory parameters, thus transforming the assessment and management of sleep disorders.[56.1] The recognition of sleep apnea as a distinct medical concept also emerged during this time, with the term "Pickwickian Syndrome" being coined in the 1950s, highlighting the importance of diagnostic criteria and PSG in understanding this condition.[58.1] Pioneers like Henri Piéron, who published "Le problème physiologique du sommeil" in 1913, laid the groundwork for modern sleep research, emphasizing the significance of physiological changes in the study of sleep.[57.1] As research progressed, the understanding of sleep's biological mechanisms also advanced. Studies have identified the role of sleep in cognitive function and health, revealing that it serves as a recovery process that helps clear the brain of toxins accumulated during wakefulness.[69.1] Furthermore, the discovery of KATP channels has highlighted the connection between metabolism and sleep regulation, underscoring the complexity of sleep physiology.[66.1] The understanding of sleep has evolved significantly, particularly in relation to societal changes from agrarian to urban living. Ethnographic data indicates that biphasic sleep was prevalent among human populations with "pre-industrial" modes of subsistence, including pastoralists, hunter-gatherers, and agriculturalists.[77.1] This suggests that traditional sleep practices were closely tied to the rhythms of natural life and work. As societies transitioned to urban environments, the dynamics of sleep began to shift, although the specific impacts on the prevalence and acceptance of biphasic sleep require further exploration. The historical records highlight the variability in napping practices across different societies, such as the Gabra, who inhabit dry regions and exhibit distinct sleep patterns.[77.1] Overall, the evolution of sleep understanding reflects a complex interplay between cultural practices and the changing demands of modern life, underscoring the importance of contextual factors in shaping contemporary sleep behaviors.Biological Mechanisms
Sleep Stages: REM and Non-REM
Sleep is divided into two primary phases: rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep. REM sleep is most often associated with vivid dreaming and a high level of brain activity, with physiological parameters such as blood pressure, heart rate, and metabolism reaching levels almost as high as those found in the awake state.[114.1] In contrast, NREM sleep, particularly during its deep stages, is characterized by reduced neuronal activity, decreased muscle tone, and lower heart rate and blood pressure, with these parameters reaching their lowest values during slow-wave sleep.[116.1] During deep NREM sleep, the brain engages in processes akin to sorting and filing information from the day, which is crucial for long-term memory storage.[117.1] Thus, while REM sleep is marked by heightened activity and vivid dreams, NREM sleep plays a vital role in restorative functions and memory consolidation.[117.1] The neural mechanisms underlying these two sleep states differ significantly. REM sleep is facilitated by specific neuronal circuits, including the activation of GABAergic neurons in the medial septum, which are crucial for generating theta activity in the hippocampus, thereby supporting memory consolidation.[115.1] Conversely, NREM sleep is associated with thalamocortical rhythms that create an environment conducive to synaptic repair, growth, and metabolic clearance, which are essential for overall brain health and cognitive function.[108.1] Despite the clear distinctions between REM and NREM sleep, the precise reasons for the necessity of these two states remain largely unresolved, even after decades of research since the initial identification of REM sleep.[107.1] The physiological changes that occur during NREM sleep, such as the predominance of delta waves, are vital for physical and mental restoration, contributing to processes like memory consolidation and cognitive development.[118.1] Thus, understanding the differences in the biological mechanisms of REM and NREM sleep is crucial for elucidating their roles in sleep disorders and overall health.Neurobiology of Sleep
The neurobiology of sleep involves intricate biological processes that span from genetic and cellular levels to complex neuronal systems influencing movement, arousal, and cognition. Sleep is an active process, characterized by the cyclical occurrence of Non-rapid eye movement (NREM) and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep phases. The regulation of sleep is governed by a balance between homeostatic needs and circadian rhythms, which together dictate the sleep-wake cycle.[89.1] Physiologically, sleep is marked by reduced movement, decreased responsiveness to stimuli, and distinct brain wave patterns observable through electroencephalography (EEG). These patterns offer insights into the regulation of sleep and wakefulness by various brain regions and cellular mechanisms.[90.1] Sleep is crucial for brain health, facilitating the clearance of toxins accumulated during wakefulness and supporting cognitive functions.[91.1] Sleep disorders, prevalent across all age groups, can severely impact health. The neurobiological underpinnings of disorders like insomnia and sleep apnea are complex and not fully understood. Factors such as genetic predisposition, emotional issues, and an overactive sympathetic nervous system contribute to insomnia, highlighting the interplay between biological and psychological factors.[95.1] Sleep apnea, characterized by interrupted sleep, affects mental health and is linked to psychiatric disorders like depression and anxiety. The frequent awakenings disrupt neurotransmitter balance, essential for mood regulation and cognitive function, underscoring the importance of effective treatment for cognitive health.[99.1]][96.1] Current treatments for sleep disorders, including pharmacotherapies, often fall short in improving daytime functioning despite increasing sleep duration.[94.1] Innovative therapeutic strategies are needed to enhance sleep quality and its cognitive and emotional benefits. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) shows promise in alleviating insomnia and reducing anxiety and depression, though its impact on emotion regulation warrants further study.[101.1] Understanding sleep's neurobiology is vital for developing effective interventions and improving mental health outcomes.In this section:
Sleep Disorders
Common Types of Sleep Disorders
Sleep disorders encompass a variety of conditions that disrupt normal sleep patterns, significantly affecting an individual's ability to achieve restorative sleep. These disorders can impair the quality, timing, and duration of sleep, ultimately affecting daytime functioning.[129.1] Among the most prevalent sleep disorders are insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), restless legs syndrome, narcolepsy, and circadian rhythm disorders.[129.1] Insomnia is characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early, and it is the most common sleep-wake disorder, often co-occurring with other medical or mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.[131.1] OSA involves repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, leading to fragmented sleep and may coexist with insomnia in patients suffering from sleep-disordered breathing.[163.1] Circadian rhythm disorders arise from misalignments between an individual's internal biological clock and external environmental cues, such as light and darkness, resulting in difficulties maintaining a regular sleep schedule.[173.1] Understanding these disorders is essential, as they can contribute to various health issues and may indicate underlying psychological conditions.[131.1] Identifying effective options to improve sleep quality and overall health is crucial.[133.1]Symptoms and Treatments
Sleep disorders manifest through a variety of symptoms that can significantly impact an individual's mental and physical health. Common symptoms include difficulty falling asleep, frequent awakenings during the night, and excessive daytime sleepiness. These disturbances are not merely inconveniences; they are closely linked to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Research indicates that sleep disturbances are often listed as diagnostic criteria for certain psychiatric disorders, highlighting the intimate relationship between sleep health and mental health conditions.[136.1] Furthermore, insufficient sleep can exacerbate stress, leading to a deterioration in mental health and contributing to the development of psychiatric disorders.[137.1] The treatment of sleep disorders often involves a multifaceted approach, including cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), which has been shown to be effective in reducing insomnia symptoms and improving overall mental health outcomes.[169.1] CBT-I focuses on restructuring the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that contribute to insomnia, employing techniques such as stimulus control, sleep restriction, and relaxation training.[170.1] This evidence-based approach is considered the most effective nonpharmacological treatment for chronic insomnia, with studies indicating that it can lead to significant improvements in sleep quality and related health outcomes.[171.1] In addition to CBT-I, occupational therapy practitioners play a crucial role in addressing sleep disorders by creating personalized intervention plans. They focus on factors such as nocturnal toileting safety, bedding management, and environmental elements that enhance sleep quality, such as sound machines and blackout curtains.[167.1] The integration of these therapeutic strategies can provide comprehensive support for individuals struggling with sleep disorders. Moreover, the rise of technology and social media has introduced new challenges to sleep health. Studies have shown that excessive use of technology, particularly before bedtime, can displace sleep and contribute to sleep problems.[140.1] The constant notifications and pressure to remain connected can lead to feelings of overwhelm, further exacerbating mental health issues.[138.1] Therefore, addressing the impact of technology on sleep is essential in the treatment of sleep disorders.Recent Advancements
Sleep Technologies
Recent advancements in sleep technologies have significantly transformed the landscape of sleep monitoring and understanding. These innovations primarily focus on enhancing the comfort and convenience of sleep monitoring through wearable sensors and integrated portable electronics. Such technologies allow individuals to monitor their sleep quality and quantity from the comfort of their own homes, providing valuable insights into their sleep patterns.[186.1] Recent developments have addressed the limitations of traditional polysomnography (PSG) by introducing novel functional materials and advanced sensing structures, enabling more effective at-home sleep monitoring.[187.1] Companies like Zepp Health have showcased products, such as the Amazfit Active 2 Smartwatch series, which incorporate AI-driven tools to enhance sleep tracking and overall wellness.[188.1] Moreover, the integration of electroencephalography (EEG) technology into wearable devices has become pivotal in capturing crucial brain activity data during sleep, serving as a primary indicator of sleep stages and disorders.[189.1] Advances in actigraphy, particularly through machine learning algorithms, have further improved the accuracy of sleep tracking, making wearable sleep technology increasingly valuable in both clinical and research settings.[190.1] These technological advancements not only facilitate individual health monitoring but also contribute to broader sleep research, enhancing our understanding of sleep's role in various health conditions and the underlying mechanisms that govern sleep patterns.Research Innovations
Recent years have witnessed significant advancements in sleep research, driven by technological innovations and a deeper understanding of the physiological processes involved in sleep. One of the most notable breakthroughs is the recognition of sleep's role in clearing harmful waste and toxins from the brain, particularly through the glymphatic system, which operates most efficiently during non-REM sleep. This process is regulated by rhythmic norepinephrine oscillations that facilitate slow vasomotion, highlighting the importance of non-REM sleep for brain health.[184.1] The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into sleep research presents exciting opportunities for advancing the field and improving patient care. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) asserts that the electrophysiological data acquired during polysomnography (PSG) is particularly well-suited for analysis using AI, which is expected to enhance the efficiency of sleep laboratories and yield greater clinical insights.[209.1] This AI-driven approach has the potential to revolutionize sleep research, as noted by co-senior corresponding author Girish N. Nadkarni, MD, MPH, who emphasizes its transformative impact.[210.1] However, it is crucial that AI applications are designed to augment, rather than replace, expert evaluation of sleep data.[209.1] The wealth of digital physiological data collected through sleep studies, wearable devices, and self-quantification systems makes sleep medicine research particularly amenable to AI/ML applications.[208.1] To develop accurate and generalizable AI models, researchers must select appropriate training data, ensuring that the datasets are large, diverse, and representative, as these factors significantly influence model performance and mitigate risks such as overfitting or underfitting.[208.1] Moreover, recent advancements in sleep research methodologies have led to the development of comprehensive models that analyze full-length sleep data. These models can identify sleep patterns across various populations and settings, offering a standardized approach for both research and clinical applications.[183.1] This shift towards more sophisticated analytical techniques is indicative of a broader trend in sleep research, where technology plays a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of sleep's complexities. As the field progresses, the implications for public health are becoming increasingly evident. Organizations like the National Sleep Foundation are advocating for enhanced sleep education and awareness, recognizing sleep as a critical component of overall health, akin to nutrition and physical activity.[201.1] However, there remains a need for greater investment in public health campaigns aimed at educating the general population about the health implications of chronic sleep loss and sleep disorders.[200.1] Addressing these gaps is essential for improving sleep health on a global scale, particularly in regions where socioeconomic disparities contribute to poor sleep outcomes.[198.1]In this section:
Sleep And Health
Impact on Physical Health
Sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining physical health, influencing various physiological systems and overall well-being. It is essential for cognitive functioning, mood regulation, and the health of cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and metabolic systems.[228.1] The complexity of sleep is underscored by its effects on nearly all bodily systems, highlighting its importance as a required activity rather than a mere option.[230.1] Disruptions in sleep can lead to significant short- and long-term health consequences. Short-term effects include increased stress responsivity, somatic pain, emotional distress, and cognitive deficits, which can diminish quality of life.[236.1] For individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, sleep disruption may exacerbate symptoms and worsen health outcomes, particularly in children and adolescents.[236.1] The stages of sleep, which include three non-rapid eye movement (NREM) stages and one rapid eye movement (REM) stage, are vital for various restorative processes in the body. During these stages, the brain recuperates, and essential functions such as muscle repair, hormone management, and memory consolidation occur.[235.1] However, conditions such as sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and chronic pain can significantly disrupt these stages, leading to poor sleep quality.[234.1] Moreover, specific populations, such as night shift workers, are at an increased risk of developing health issues like heart disease due to the adverse effects of sleep deprivation.[237.1] These individuals often face unique challenges that can compromise their sleep health, necessitating the implementation of strategies to support their well-being.[238.1]Impact on Mental Health
The interplay between sleep and mental health is complex and bidirectional, with sleep issues potentially exacerbating mental health conditions and vice versa. Research indicates that poor or insufficient sleep can significantly increase the risk of developing mental health disorders, including depression and anxiety. For instance, individuals with short sleep duration (less than 7 hours) exhibit depressive symptoms approximately 33% more frequently than those who achieve adequate sleep.[243.1] Furthermore, sleep disruptions can alter brain chemistry, contributing to the onset and worsening of various mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety.[255.1] The relationship between sleep and mental health is underscored by evidence showing that insomnia can be both a symptom and a contributing factor to psychiatric disorders. For example, lingering sleep problems in individuals undergoing treatment for depression can heighten the risk of relapse into depressive episodes.[245.1] Additionally, studies have demonstrated that sleep quality is closely linked to emotional well-being, with poor sleep leading to decreased positive emotions and heightened negative emotional responses to stressors.[244.1] The relationship between sleep quality and mental health is notably significant, particularly concerning conditions such as depression. Research indicates that sleep problems are closely linked to depression, and treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices for sleep apnea can help restore healthy sleep patterns, thereby reducing the risk of depression.[245.1] Furthermore, evidence suggests that persistent sleep issues in individuals undergoing treatment for depression may increase the likelihood of a relapse into depressive states. A study from Johns Hopkins found that healthy individuals whose sleep was frequently interrupted experienced a 31% reduction in positive moods the following day.[245.1] This underscores the importance of addressing sleep quality as part of a comprehensive approach to managing mental health disorders.Sleep Practices
Cultural Sleep Practices
Cultural sleep practices have evolved significantly over time, influenced by various factors including geography, climate, and societal changes. The transition from ancient to modern sleep practices is characterized by a complex interplay of innovations rather than a straightforward progression. Early human societies developed unique methods to ensure comfort and safety during sleep, which were deeply rooted in their cultural contexts.[279.1] Historically, segmented sleep was a common practice, particularly before the Industrial Revolution. This pattern typically involved two sleep intervals of approximately three hours each, separated by a period of wakefulness. Such segmented sleep was prevalent in Western households due to the lack of artificial lighting, which dictated sleep schedules aligned with natural light cycles.[318.1] Research indicates that this biphasic sleep pattern may have evolved as communities migrated to regions with longer nights, disrupting continuous sleep and leading to segmented rest.[280.1] The evolution of sleep practices across cultures has seen a significant shift from segmented sleep to monophasic sleep, which is characterized by a consolidated period of approximately 7-9 hours of continuous sleep at night. Monophasic sleep has become the predominant sleep pattern in modern societies, largely influenced by industrialization and societal changes that prioritize productivity.[300.1] This transition reflects broader societal changes, as the need for efficiency has led to a perception of sleep as a hindrance rather than a necessity.[300.1] Historically, segmented sleep was common, particularly in earlier societies, where sleep patterns were influenced by environmental factors such as longer nights in northern regions, which may have disrupted continuous sleep.[300.1] The shift to monophasic sleep represents not just a change in sleep habits but also a complex interplay of cultural, technological, and economic factors that have shaped how societies view and manage sleep.[300.1] Despite the predominance of monophasic sleep in modern societies, evidence suggests that segmented sleep patterns still exist in certain cultures and can be influenced by environmental factors.[317.1] For instance, studies of pre-industrial societies indicate that individuals in these communities did not typically awaken for extended periods during the night, suggesting that the bimodal sleep pattern may not have been universal prior to the advent of electric lighting.[320.1] Moreover, the emphasis on darkness and quiet for optimal sleep, a practice observed in many ancient cultures, aligns with contemporary sleep hygiene recommendations. This highlights the enduring importance of safety and community in fostering restful sleep.[303.1] As sleep practices continue to evolve, they reflect broader societal changes and the ongoing negotiation between traditional customs and modern demands.In this section:
Future Directions
Emerging Research Areas
Emerging research areas in sleep science have gained significant attention, particularly since the 1980s, as various medical and health-related disciplines, including neurology, pulmonology, psychology, psychiatry, dentistry, and nursing, have increasingly engaged with the field.[323.1] The evolution of sleep research has been marked by considerable advancements, beginning with the first electroencephalography recordings in the 1930s and continuing with the discovery of well-distinguishable sleep stages in the 1950s.[326.1] This interdisciplinary approach highlights the broad scope of sleep research and its relevance across multiple domains of health and medicine. One prominent area of research is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in sleep assessments. AI has been instrumental in improving patient monitoring and management, enhancing polysomnography sleep scoring, and facilitating behavioral sleep medicine.[333.1] The application of AI in sleep medicine is expected to lead to more accurate classifications and diagnoses of sleep disorders, as well as the prediction of treatment outcomes and the characterization of disease subtypes.[335.1] Furthermore, wearable devices and smartphone applications are becoming essential tools in sleep research, providing continuous monitoring capabilities and personalized recommendations based on individual sleep patterns.[334.1] Another emerging trend is the increasing recognition of sleep's critical role in overall health, prompting researchers to explore the relationship between sleep quality and various health conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease.[327.1] The impact of lifestyle factors, particularly excessive screen time, on sleep quality and mental health is also a significant area of investigation. Studies have shown that screen use before bedtime can lead to difficulties in falling asleep and unrefreshing sleep, highlighting the need for updated research in light of evolving digital technology.[332.1] The future of sleep research is poised to evolve through the integration of both subjective and objective assessments, which will enhance our understanding of sleep health. This evolution includes exploring various methods and sources for collecting and combining data, ultimately aiming to inform clinical practice and advance sleep research methodologies.[325.1] Sleep disturbances have been shown to have significant adverse effects on both physical and mental health, with poor sleep quality linked to an increased risk of conditions such as obesity, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes.[328.1] Furthermore, the growing concern over excessive screen time highlights its potential negative impacts on overall well-being, emphasizing the need for strategies that encourage individuals to reduce digital device usage and engage in more physically active and socially interactive behaviors.[330.1]References
[1] 28.1 Concepts of Sleep and Rest - OpenStax — This section explores the physiology involved in sleep, starting with the contributions of the reticular activating system (RAS)— a group of neurons that control sleep and wakefulness, arousal, and consciousness—and the circadian rhythms, or the biological rhythm associated with metabolism, temperature, sleep, and wakefulness.
[2] Sleep Physiology - Sleep Disorders and Sleep Deprivation - NCBI Bookshelf — Humans spend about one-third of their lives asleep, yet most individuals know little about sleep. Although its function remains to be fully elucidated, sleep is a universal need of all higher life forms including humans, absence of which has serious physiological consequences. This chapter provides an overview of basic sleep physiology and describes the characteristics of REM and NREM sleep
[3] Physiology of Sleep - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf — Sleep is an extremely complicated process that consists of more than simply closing one's eyelids and counting sheep. It is an active state of unconsciousness produced by the body where the brain is in a relative state of rest and is reactive primarily to internal stimulus. The exact purpose of sleep has not been fully elucidated. Several prominent theories have explored the brain and
[4] How does sleep affect health? | University of Chicago News — All human beings need sleep. We spend a third of our lives asleep, and it’s as important as food, water or air to our survival. While scientists are still working to understand the exact nature of sleep and why it’s so important to our well-being, decades of research have made it clear that adequate sleep is vital to our physical and mental health. Among many other things, sleep plays a crucial role in memory consolidation and other brain functions, supporting the immune system and healing after injury or disease, and protecting against heart disease and diabetes. We spend a third of our lives asleep, and it’s as important as food, water or air to our survival.
[5] Sleep is essential to health: an American Academy of Sleep Medicine ... — INTRODUCTION. Sleep is vital for health and well-being in children, adolescents, and adults. 1-3 Healthy sleep is important for cognitive functioning, mood, mental health, and cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and metabolic health. 4 Adequate quantity and quality of sleep also play a role in reducing the risk of accidents and injuries caused by sleepiness and fatigue, including workplace
[6] Designing adolescent sleep interventions with stakeholder input — Few sleep promotion programs for adolescents have involved stakeholders as part of the intervention development, which may contribute to their limited accessibility, scalability, acceptability, and feasibility. Specifically asking stakeholders for their input on how to modify factors impacting sleep is critical, as is identifying strategies for motivating sleep behavior change. We report
[9] Sleep myths: An expert-led study to identify false beliefs about sleep ... — False beliefs about sleep can persist despite contradicting scientific evidence, potentially impairing population health. Identifying commonly held false beliefs lacking an evidence base ('myths') can inform efforts to promote population sleep
[11] Shift work can harm sleep and health: What helps? — Disrupting the circadian rhythm through shift work appears to increase the odds of colorectal cancer, a malignancy with strong ties to lifestyle factors, according to a 2023 review of multiple studies published online in the Journal of Investigative Medicine.
[13] Circadian rhythm disruption and mental health — Advertisement View all journals Search Log in Explore content About the journal Publish with us Sign up for alerts RSS feed nature translational psychiatry review articles article Circadian rhythm disruption and mental health Download PDF Download PDF Review Article Open access Published: 23 January 2020 Circadian rhythm disruption and mental health William H. Walker II1, James C. Walton ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-3049-10291, A. Courtney DeVries1,2 & … Randy J. Nelson1 Show authorsTranslational Psychiatry volume 10, Article number: 28 (2020) Cite this article 156k Accesses 524 Citations 668 Altmetric Metrics details Subjects Neuroscience Psychiatric disorders Abstract Circadian rhythms are internal manifestations of the solar day that permit adaptations to predictable environmental temporal changes. A bidirectional relationship exists between mood disorders and circadian rhythms. Mood disorders are often associated with disrupted circadian clock-controlled responses, such as sleep and cortisol secretion, whereas disruption of circadian rhythms via jet lag, night-shift work, or exposure to artificial light at night, can precipitate or exacerbate affective symptoms in susceptible individuals. This review provides an overview of disrupted circadian rhythms and the relationship to behavioral health and psychiatry. Lastly, we propose low-cost behavioral and lifestyle changes to improve circadian rhythms and presumably behavioral health.
[17] Establish good sleep habits in your child - Mayo Clinic Press — Many sleep problems can be prevented by establishing good sleeping habits (sleep hygiene) early on. To promote a good night's rest, develop a routine that allows your child to set aside the activities and anxieties of the day and rest undisturbed until the next morning. Here are recommendations from sleep experts: Stick to a sleep schedule
[40] The History of Sleep Study | Blog | Sleep Health Solutions — Investigating the Importance of REM Sleep. For most of early history, many cultures focused on the interpretation of dreams. Yet, they were largely uninterested in the role of sleep as a factor in human health. Only in the 18th century did scientists actually begin to research sleep patterns. In 1729, Jean Jacques d'Ortuous de Marian
[42] The forgotten medieval habit of 'two sleeps' - BBC — Biphasic sleep was not unique to England, either - it was widely practised throughout the preindustrial world. In France, the initial sleep was the "premier somme"; in Italy, it was "primo sonno
[43] History of Sleep - How Ancient Humans Slept Before Electricity — Based on the findings in this sleep research, the researchers suggest that biphasic sleep evolved after ancient communities migrated further north toward Europe, in which the longer nights may have interrupted sleep patterns, ultimately leading to segmented rest.
[56] The Future Of Sleep Disorders: From Insomnia to Sweet Dreams - Namdrc — It was not until the 20th century that advancements like EEGs allowed for more in-depth analysis. Over the years, sleep studies have evolved from rudimentary observations to complex polysomnography that records brain waves, oxygen levels in the blood, heart rate, and breathing, as well as eye and leg movements during the study. Sleep Study
[57] Evaluation Instruments for Sleep Disorders: A Brief History of ... — French scientist Henri Piéron (1881-1964) with his work entitled "Le problème physiologique du sommeil" published in 1913, is usually regarded as the pioneer of the modern approach to sleep research. Advances in technology, and in particular the development of polysomnography which allowed the recording of physiologic changes during
[58] Sleep Apnea Diagnosis: Historical Timeline and Medical Breakthroughs — It wasn't until the mid-20th century that sleep apnea began to take shape as a distinct medical concept. In the 1950s, the term "Pickwickian Syndrome" was coined, inspired by Dickens' character. ... The development of diagnostic criteria and the use of polysomnography (sleep studies) were crucial advancements during this period
[60] Sleep in human and cultural evolution - ScienceDirect — Sleep in human and cultural evolution - ScienceDirect Foundations of Sleep Health Chapter 2 - Sleep in human and cultural evolution This chapter examines human sleep patterns and habits throughout history and across cultures. The second part of the chapter focuses on cultural variations in sleep habits and environments, including typical sleeping arrangements, bedroom sharing, sleep schedules, napping, and sleep rituals in different cultures around the world. Evolution of Sleep and Adaptive Sleeplessness Sleep Health, Volume 2, Issue 3, 2016, pp. Sleep Medicine, Volume 75, 2020, pp. Foundations of Sleep Health, 2022, pp. Show 3 more articles All content on this site: Copyright © 2025 or its licensors and contributors. For all open access content, the relevant licensing terms apply.
[61] Dreams in Western Cultures: Their History and Understandings — Ancient Greek and Roman Insights on Dreams. The history of dreams in Western cultures can be traced back to ancient Greece and Rome, where dreams held significant cultural and philosophical importance. Both civilizations believed that dreams were not just random occurrences but carried deep meanings, often seen as messages from gods or premonitions of future events.
[62] Dreaming Across Cultures: Exploring the Fascinating Cultural ... — Cultural beliefs and traditions can also influence dream content. For example, in some indigenous cultures, dreams are seen as a means of connecting with ancestors or receiving guidance from the spirit world. Dreams may often involve encounters with deceased loved ones or spiritual beings. The Significance of Dreams in Indigenous Cultures
[63] History of Sleep: A Comprehensive Journey Through Time — Why has sleep been important throughout human history? Sleep has always been essential for survival, health, and spiritual connection, as evidenced by ancient rituals and modern science. 2. How did ancient civilizations view sleep? Cultures like Egypt and Mesopotamia viewed sleep as divine, linking it to dreams, health, and the supernatural. 3.
[64] Exploring Cultural Perspectives on Sleep - Nootropics Planet — Cultural Interpretations of Sleep. While the biological definition of sleep remains consistent, its cultural interpretations are diverse. Societies across the globe have developed unique practices and beliefs surrounding sleep, influenced by historical, environmental, and social factors.
[66] Fueling sleep: Researchers show key metabolic link to restful nights — The study identified a previously unknown function of KATP channels in sleep regulation. "We discovered that KATP channels—key regulators linking metabolism and excitability—play a previously
[69] Advances in sleep research in 2024 - The Lancet Neurology — Sleep is a universal and essential biological process, and thus must confer beneficial effects. Over the past decade, a new function of sleep as a recovery process has been uncovered: it can help to clear the brain of potentially harmful waste and toxins accumulated during wakefulness.1 In the brain, the glymphatic system might be driven by hydrostatic pressure gradients established by
[77] How accurate is it to say the biphasic sleep(afternoon nap) is ... — The ethnographic data does seem to point to biphasic sleep as being quite common among human populations with "pre-industrial" modes of subsistance, whether it be pastoralists, hunter-gatherers or agriculturalists. ... the authors speak to different variables in napping across a handful of distinct societies. The Gabra who live in dry regions
[89] Physiology of Sleep - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf — Introduction Sleep is an extremely complicated process that consists of more than simply closing one’s eyelids and counting sheep. It is an active state of unconsciousness produced by the body where the brain is in a relative state of rest and is reactive primarily to internal stimulus. Several prominent theories have explored the brain and attempt to identify a purpose for why we sleep, which includes the Inactivity theory, Energy conservation theory, Restoration theory, and the Brain plasticity theory. Function Sleep functions in a relatively predictable cyclical pattern between 2 major phases: Non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Mechanism The mechanism through which sleep is generated and maintained is more of a balance between two systems located within the brain: the homeostatic processes, which are functionally the body’s “need for sleep” center, and the circadian rhythm which is an internal clock for the sleep-wake cycle.
[90] Functions and Mechanisms of Sleep - PMC - PubMed Central (PMC) — The classic definition of sleep is generally based upon physiological characteristics observed in mammals including reduced body movement and electromyographic activity, reduced responsiveness to external stimuli, closed eyes, reduced breathing rates, and altered body position and brain wave architecture assessed by polysomnography (Table 1). Overall, the definition of mammalian sleep relies on activity and metabolism in relation to the electrical brain signals obtained in the electroencephalogram (EEG). EEG frequency bands provide essential information of how brain regions, cells, and molecules regulate wakefulness, sleep states, and display dysfunction due to related pathologies (Table 2). doi: 10.1016/s0006-8993(00)03008-0. Sleep. doi: 10.5665/sleep.1950. doi: 10.3791/4328. doi: 10.1155/2015/234952. doi: 10.1186/1476-4598-12-86. doi: 10.1159/000014655. doi: 10.2174/157015911795596559. doi: 10.1016/0006-8993(94)91969-0. doi: 10.1016/s0361-9230(96)00227-4. doi: 10.1016/s0006-8993(03)02484-3. doi: 10.1097/00006123-200106000-00051. Sleep. doi: 10.1093/sleep/31.11.1579. doi: 10.1016/S1474-4422(12)70322-8.
[91] Brain Basics: Understanding Sleep | National Institute of Neurological ... — Main navigation Brain Basics: Understanding Sleep Sleep is an important part of your daily routine—you spend about one-third of your time doing it. Quality sleep—and getting enough of it at the right times—is as essential to survival as food and water. Sleep is important to a number of brain functions, including how nerve cells (neurons) communicate with each other. Recent findings suggest that sleep plays a housekeeping role that removes toxins in your brain that build up while you are awake. Sleep is a complex and dynamic process that affects how you function in ways scientists are now beginning to understand.
[94] Sleep and sleep disturbances: biological basis and clinical ... — Deviant sleep patterns are associated with increased risks of morbidity, poor quality of life and mortality. Current sleep pharmacotherapies treat insufficient sleep quantity, but fail to improve daytime functioning. New treatment modalities for sleep disorders that will also improve daytime functioning remain a scientific and medical challenge.
[95] The Most Common Biological Causes of Insomnia - Help With Sleep & Insomnia — Three main biological causes are described. These are the genetic predisposition of insomnia, emotional concerns or worrying, and anxiety. We will elaborate on how emotional concerns or worrying often is caused by an overactive sympathetic nervous system. This is the body's fight or flight mechanism which causes insomnia in multiple ways.
[96] Sleep Apnea and Cognitive Health: Why Treatment Is Critical for Brain ... — Emotional well-being is affected by sleep apnea, as fragmented sleep can exacerbate mood disorders like depression and anxiety. Effective treatment of sleep apnea is essential for restoring cognitive health, enhancing memory function, and reducing long-term health risks.
[99] The mental health risks of sleep apnea (and how to address them) — Why sleep apnea affects your mental health. When you sleep, your brain works to restore balance in neurotransmitters—chemicals that control mood, stress response, and cognitive function. 1 Sleep apnea, with its constant waking throughout the night, interrupts this process, causing imbalances that can contribute to mental health disorders. 2
[101] (PDF) Insomnia and Emotion Regulation: Recent Findings ... - ResearchGate — Despite the fact that sleep improvement by the way of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for insomnia is associated with decreases in anxiety and depression, emotion regulation was not studied in
[107] Relationships between REM and NREM in the NREM-REM sleep cycle: a ... — Since the discovery of rapid-eye movement (REM) sleep by Aserinsky and Kleitman , we have known that sleep is made up of two easily distinguishable neurophysiological states: rapid eye movement (REM) and non-rapid eye movement (NREM).Sixty-five years later, the reasons why we sleep and why we need two states of sleep is still largely unclear (see Refs.
[108] The futuristic manifolds of REM sleep - PMC — Within this model, periodic neural quiescence and thalamocortical rhythms of non‐REM (NREM) sleep provide essential milieu for the homeostatic synaptic and cell repair mechanisms, growth and development, waste and metabolite clearance, and stress regulation (Tononi & Cirelli, 2020; Van De Poll & Van Swinderen, 2021).
[114] Physiological Changes in Sleep States - Neuroscience - NCBI Bookshelf — Physiological Changes in Sleep States - Neuroscience - NCBI Bookshelf NCBI Bookshelf. Physiological Changes in Sleep States In non-REM sleep, body movements are reduced compared to wakefulness, although it is common to change sleeping position (tossing and turning). Periods of REM sleep, in contrast, are characterized by increases in blood pressure, heart rate, and metabolism to levels almost as high as those found in the awake state. Despite the similar EEG recordings obtained in REM sleep and wakefulness, the two conditions are clearly not equivalent brain states. Physiological Changes in Sleep States - Neuroscience Physiological Changes in Sleep States - Neuroscience Physiological Changes in Sleep States. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK10916/ Making content easier to read in Bookshelf Close
[115] The Biology of REM Sleep - PMC — Silencing these same neurons outside of REM sleep episodes was without any detectable effect on memory processing, providing evidence that activity of GABA neurons in the medial septum during REM sleep is crucial for theta activity in the hippocampus, and subsequent memory consolidation. Figure 1.
[116] Physiological Changes in Sleep States - Neuroscience - NCBI Bookshelf — A variety of physiological changes take place during the different stages of sleep (see Figure 28.6). Periods of non-REM sleep are characterized by decreases in muscle tone, heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, and metabolic rate. All these parameters reach their lowest values during slow-wave sleep. In non-REM sleep, body movements are reduced compared to wakefulness, although it is common
[117] NREM Sleep: Stages, Functions, and Psychological Significance — Physiological Changes During NREM Sleep: Your Body's Nighttime Makeover. ... During deep sleep, your brain acts like a diligent librarian, sorting through the day's experiences and filing away important information for long-term storage. It's like your very own midnight study session, minus the caffeine jitters and existential dread.
[118] What Happens During NREM Sleep? - Sleep Foundation — NREM sleep stages are vital for physical and mental restoration. ... The majority of brain waves during stage 3 NREM sleep are called delta waves. These are large waves with a relatively slow frequency of 1 to 4 Hertz. ... Developmental changes of sleep spindles and their impact on sleep-dependent memory consolidation and general cognitive
[129] Sleep Disorders: Types, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment — Giving Careers Search ClevelandClinic.org Find A Doctor Locations & Directions Patients & Visitors Health Library Institutes & Departments Appointments Home/ Health Library/ Diseases & Conditions/ Sleep Disorders Advertisement Advertisement Sleep Disorders Sleep disorders are conditions that affect the quality, amount and timing of sleep you’re able to get at night. Common sleep disorders include insomnia, restless legs syndrome, narcolepsy and sleep apnea. Sleep disorders can affect your mental health and physical health. Sleep disorders are conditions that affect your ability to get the rest your body needs and maintain wakefulness. A disruption to your body’s cycle of sleep and daytime wakefulness causes sleep disorders.
[131] What are Sleep Disorders? - Psychiatry.org — Sleep-wake disorders often occur along with medical conditions or other mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, or cognitive disorders. There are several different types of sleep-wake disorders, of which insomnia is the most common.
[133] Types of Sleep Disorders: What You Need to Know - Health Web Magazine — Learn about the common types of sleep disorders, such as insomnia, sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, narcolepsy, and circadian rhythm disorders. Find out how they affect your health and well-being, and what options are available to improve your sleep quality.
[136] Sleep and mental health: A bidirectional relationship - PsyPost — This means that we might struggle to deal with everyday stressors and even develop mental health issues like anxiety and depression. In fact, there's an intimate relationship between sleep disturbances and mental disorder conditions, so much so that sleep disturbances are listed as diagnostic criteria for certain psychiatric disorders.
[137] Bidirectional relationship between sleep and depression — Insufficient sleep can be stressful, and the accumulation of stress leads to the deterioration of mental health and contributes to the development of psychiatric disorders. Thus, it is likely that depression and sleep are bidirectionally related, i.e. development of depression contributes to sleep disturbances and vice versa.
[138] Impact of Technology on Mental Health | Citizen Advocates — The use of technology has been linked to a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression and sleep disorders. The constant barrage of notifications and the pressure to stay connected can lead us to feel overwhelmed and burned out. ... The key to managing the impact of technology on mental health is striking a balance between the
[140] Sleeping with technology: cognitive, affective, and technology usage ... — Numerous studies have proposed that technology use, particularly before bedtime, serves to displace sleep. Gradisar et al 6 reported that 9 in 10 Americans used a technological device during the last hour before bedtime with two-thirds of young adults using cell phones during that time and that more interactive devices used during the hour before bedtime predicted increased sleep problems.
[163] Comorbid Insomnia and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (COMISA): Current ... — Comorbid Insomnia and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (COMISA): Current Concepts of Patient Management - PMC Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and insomnia are the two most common sleep disorders among the general population, and they may often coexist in patients with sleep-disordered breathing (SDB). investigated the presence of insomnia symptoms present in OSA patients before being treated for sleep apnea . 15.Ong J.C., Crawford M.R. Insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea. 31.Stelzer G., Garcia E., Schorr F., Barea L.M., Barros H.T. Prevalence of chronic insomnia in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. 45.Caetano Mota P., Morals Cardoso S., Drummond M., Santos A.C., Almelda J., Winck J.C. Prevalence of new-onset insomnia in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome treated with nocturnal ventilatory support. 97.Ong J.C., Crawford M.R., Wallace D.M. Sleep Apnea and Insomnia: Emerging Evidence for Effective Clinical Management.
[167] PDF — Occupational therapy practitioners address nocturnal toileting safety, bedding management, and clothing preferences for sleep. Environmental elements, such as sufficient blankets for warmth, sound machines to add white noise, and blackout curtains or eye masks may enhance quality of sleep. Occupational Therapy's Role with Sleep Fact Sheet
[169] What Is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-i)? - Verywell Mind — What Is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-i)? Techniques of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-i) What Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-i) Can Help With Benefits of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-i) A systematic review and meta-analysis from 2022, published in Sleep Medicine Reviews found that CBT-i had a positive effect on decreasing insomnia for patients. If you have further questions about your insomnia, any side effects you are experiencing, or whether CBT-i therapy is the best choice for you, consider reaching out to your physician or a mental health professional. Effects of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) on quality of life: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I). Increasing access to and utilization of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I): a narrative review.
[170] Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I): An Overview — Additional Tips for Sleeping With Insomnia Key Takeaways CBT-I focuses on restructuring the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are contributing to insomnia. Therapy techniques involve stimulus control, sleep restriction, and relaxation training. CBT-I is considered effective for both short-term insomnia and chronic insomnia. Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is a short, structured, and evidence-based approach to combating the frustrating symptoms of insomnia.
[171] Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia: An Effective and ... — About 7% to 18% of adults meet the criteria for an insomnia disorder.1,2 Sleep disruptions contribute to a variety of medical problems, including cognitive impairment, reduced immune function, metabolic imbalance, and exacerbation of psychiatric conditions.3 The most effective nonpharmacological treatment for chronic insomnia is cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-i). (2) Patient are much more likely to learn about sleep medication as a treatment for their insomnia (via drug advertisements and prescribing physicians) than CBT-i. Patients are much more likely to learn about sleep medication as a treatment for their insomnia (via drug advertisements and prescribing physicians) than CBT-i.
[173] Circadian Rhythm Sleep Disorders - PMC - PubMed Central (PMC) — Circadian rhythm sleep disorder is a group of sleep disorders sharing a common underlying etiology of circadian dysfunction that is primarily due to alterations in the central pacemaker and/or its entrainment mechanisms, or to external changes in the physical or social/work environment that lead to circadian misalignment.
[183] New AI Model Analyzes Full Night of Sleep With High Accuracy in Largest ... — This new approach, developed using thousands of sleep recordings, takes a more comprehensive view. By training on full-length sleep data, the model can recognize sleep patterns throughout the night and across different populations and settings, offering a standardized and scalable method for sleep research and clinical use, say the investigators.
[184] The night shift: norepinephrine drives glymphatics | Cell Research - Nature — The glymphatic system clears waste most efficiently during non-rapid eye movement sleep, driven by rhythmic norepinephrine oscillations that regulate slow vasomotion. ... Mestre, H. et al. Science
[186] Technologies for sleep monitoring at home: wearables and nearables — Recent advancements in sleep technology have focused on making sleep monitoring more comfortable and convenient, with sensors that can be easily wearable or installable within one's own sleep environment at home. Sleep monitoring at home provides valuable insights into an individual's sleep quality and quantity.
[187] Recent advances in wearable sensors and portable electronics for sleep ... — This review summarizes the most recent technology updates in wearable sensors and integrated portable electronics for sleep monitoring applications. To overcome standard PSG limitations and enable at-home sleep monitoring, recent advancements have come up with systems with novel functional materials, new sensing structures, and advanced data
[188] Zepp Health Advances Sleep Tracking and Holistic Wellness with Latest Tech — Summary: Zepp Health unveiled its latest advancements in wearable technology and health solutions at CES, showcasing products like the Amazfit Active 2 Smartwatch series and the Zepp V1TAL prototype.These innovations focus on enhancing sleep tracking, fitness, nutrition, and overall wellness through AI-driven tools and ecosystem integration.
[189] Advancements in Wearable EEG Technology for Improved Home-Based Sleep ... — EEG technology plays a pivotal role in sleep monitoring, as it captures crucial brain activity data during sleep and serves as a primary indicator of sleep stages and disorders. This review provides an overview of the most recent advancements in wearable sleep monitoring leveraging EEG technology.
[190] State of the science and recommendations for using wearable technology ... — Wearable sleep-tracking technology is of growing use in the sleep and circadian fields, including for applications across other disciplines, inclusive of a variety of disease states. ... Over the recent years, advances in the field of actigraphy have been largely focused on improving algorithms through the integration of machine learning sleep
[198] Reforming Sleep Health: A Need to Focus on Sleep Health Policy to ... — Environmental conditions in these countries are concerning, and socioeconomic disparities are severe, paving the way for poor sleep health and its medical, societal, and economic consequences . If we want to improve our citizens' overall health, we must prioritize sleep health through a variety of measures . Therefore, a multi-pronged
[200] Improving Awareness, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Sleep Disorders — Somnology Public Health Education Campaigns A review of the National Center on Sleep Disorders Research (NCSDR), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and private foundations demonstrate a limited investment in education and awareness campaigns directed toward increasing the general public's knowledge of the health implications associated with chronic sleep loss and sleep disorders.
[201] The need to promote sleep health in public health agendas across the globe — Healthy sleep is essential for physical and mental health, and social wellbeing; however, across the globe, and particularly in developing countries, national public health agendas rarely consider sleep health. Sleep should be promoted as an essential pillar of health, equivalent to nutrition and physical activity. To improve sleep health across the globe, a focus on education and awareness
[208] Artificial Intelligence in Sleep Medicine: The Dawn of a New Era — Integrating AI and ML with big data presents exciting opportunities for advancing sleep medicine research and improving patient care.30 Due to the wealth of digital physiological data collected through sleep studies, wearable devices, and self-quantification systems, data analysis in sleep medicine research is particularly well-suited for AI/ML applications.31 The selection of appropriate training data is vital for developing accurate and generalizable AI models in sleep medicine research, as the size, quality, and representativeness of the dataset can significantly affect model performance and the likelihood of overfitting or underfitting, which are issues related to how well the model predicts new, unseen data compared to how it performs on the training data.5 To mitigate these risks, researchers should strive to use large, diverse, and representative datasets for training AI models, employ random sampling methods to guarantee that the data accurately reflects the target population, and apply iterative model training along with independent validation to evaluate the stability and generalizability of the models developed.32
[209] Artificial intelligence in sleep medicine: an American Academy of Sleep ... — POSITION. It is the position of the AASM that the electrophysiological data acquired during PSG is well-suited for analysis using AI. While AI applications that score sleep and associated events are expected to improve sleep laboratory efficiency and yield greater clinical insights, the goal of AI integration should be to augment, not replace, expert evaluation of sleep data.
[210] New Approach to Sleep AI Considers Full Night of Data Together — "This AI-driven approach has the potential to revolutionize sleep research," says co-senior corresponding author Girish N. Nadkarni, MD, MPH, chair of the Windreich Department of Artificial Intelligence and Human Health at the Icahn School of Medicine, Director of the Hasso Plattner Institute for Digital Health, and the Irene and Dr. Arthur
[228] Sleep is essential to health: an American Academy of Sleep Medicine ... — Sleep is vital for health and well-being in children, adolescents, and adults. 1-3 Healthy sleep is important for cognitive functioning, mood, mental health, and cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and metabolic health. 4 Adequate quantity and quality of sleep also play a role in reducing the risk of accidents and injuries caused by sleepiness
[230] How Sleep Works: Understanding the Science of Sleep — Even after decades of research, the exact reason why we sleep remains one of the most enduring and intriguing mysteries in health science. To try to get to the bottom of this question, experts analyze how sleep works and what happens when we don’t get enough sleep. Studies demonstrate that sleep is incredibly complex and has effects on virtually all systems of the body. While there is much that is still to be learned about the intricacies of how sleep works, existing research sheds light on the mechanics of what happens in the brain and body during sleep. This knowledge reveals how sleep is connected to numerous elements of physical, emotional, and mental health and provides insights about how people can get better sleep.
[234] Understanding Sleep Cycles and Their Impact on Your Health - Mito ... — Underlying Health Conditions: Sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, chronic pain, and other medical conditions can significantly impact sleep quality and disrupt sleep stages. Anxiety and depression are also closely linked to sleep disturbances. Medications: Medications can have side effects that affect sleep or alter the sleep cycle.
[235] Stages of Sleep: What Happens in a Sleep Cycle — Key Takeaways Three non-rapid eye movement stages and one rapid eye movement stage make up one sleep cycle. A person will typically go through four to six sleep cycles per night, although the duration of each stage may vary. The sleep stages allow the brain to recuperate from the day and support multiple functions. Progressing smoothly multiple times through the sleep cycle, composed of four separate sleep stages, is a vital part of getting high-quality rest. Instead, over the course of the night, your total sleep is made up of several rounds of the sleep cycle, which is composed of four individual stages.
[236] Short- and long-term health consequences of sleep disruption — Short- and long-term health consequences of sleep disruption Short- and long-term health consequences of sleep disruption Sleep disruptions have substantial adverse short- and long-term health consequences. In otherwise healthy adults, short-term consequences of sleep disruption include increased stress responsivity, somatic pain, reduced quality of life, emotional distress and mood disorders, and cognitive, memory, and performance deficits. For those with underlying medical conditions, sleep disruption may diminish the health-related quality of life of children and adolescents and may worsen the severity of common gastrointestinal disorders. As a result of the potential consequences of sleep disruption, health care professionals should be cognizant of how managing underlying medical conditions may help to optimize sleep continuity and consider prescribing interventions that minimize sleep disruption.
[237] Overnight Shifts: Pros, Cons, and How to Keep Your Team Productive — Health-related costs: Night shift workers are at increased risk of developing heart disease and other conditions, which may lead to higher healthcare claims. Employee health and well-being considerations. Night shift work can take a toll on mental and physical health. Employers must prioritize solutions to support their teams.
[238] Sleep Like a Boss: Optimal Night Shift Sleep Schedule Strategies — To cut down these risks, you need good sleep habits. This means making your room sleep-friendly, sticking to a regular sleep schedule, and using blackout curtains to keep out daylight. For more tips, check out our section on sleep tips for night shift workers.. By knowing the challenges and health risks of night shifts, you can take steps to stay healthy and sleep better.
[243] Sleep, anxiety, and depression - ScienceDirect — The coexistence of sleep disorders and depression is often seen in clinical settings, especially in patients experiencing psychiatric disorders, and that underlines the close association between sleep and mental health. In fact, depressive symptoms are approximately 33% more common among people with short sleep duration (< 7 h) compared to adults with sufficient sleep. Another contributing
[244] How Sleep Deprivation Impacts Mental Health — And there is now robust evidence similarly supporting that sleep is critical to not only our physical health but also our mental health. Poor or insufficient sleep has been found to increase negative emotional responses to stressors and to decrease positive emotions. Not getting enough sleep or poor-quality sleep can increase risk for mental health disorders. While insomnia can be a symptom of psychiatric disorders, like anxiety and depression, it is now recognized that sleep problems can also contribute to the onset and worsening of different mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, and even suicidal ideation.
[245] Depression and Sleep: Understanding the Connection — Depression and Sleep: Understanding the Connection | Johns Hopkins Medicine Age-Related Depression, Mood and Stress Aging and Sleep Health Risks of Poor Sleep Depression and sleep problems are closely linked. Treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices for apnea can restore good sleep, helping you sidestep related conditions like depression. Get help for both depression and sleep. There’s some evidence that lingering sleep problems in people undergoing depression treatment increase the risk of a slide back into depression. In a Johns Hopkins study, healthy women and men whose sleep was interrupted throughout the night had a 31% reduction in positive moods the next day.
[255] Understanding Sleep Hygiene and Mental Health — Sleep disruptions have been found to alter brain chemistry, which can lead to the development of mental health disorders. The relationship between sleep and mental health disorders is complex. Poor sleep hygiene can exacerbate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other diagnoses, as well as the other way around. ... "Anyone can practice good
[279] Ancient Sleep Practices: How Humans Rested Before Beds — The transition from ancient to modern sleep practices was not a linear progression but rather a complex tapestry of innovations influenced by geography, climate, culture, and technology. As we delve into the history of human slumber, we'll uncover the ingenious ways our forebears found comfort and safety in their nightly repose.
[280] History of Sleep - How Ancient Humans Slept Before Electricity — Based on the findings in this sleep research, the researchers suggest that biphasic sleep evolved after ancient communities migrated further north toward Europe, in which the longer nights may have interrupted sleep patterns, ultimately leading to segmented rest.
[300] Could the Historical Transition from Segmented to Monophasic Sleep ... — Monophasic sleep, which is the pattern where all of the day's sleep is consolidated into one long period, is the most common sleep pattern in modern societies, typically involving around 7-9 hours of continuous sleep at night. ... The transition from segmented to monophasic sleep brought about by industrialization and the advent of
[303] Ancient Sleep Practices: How Humans Rested Before Beds — The emphasis on darkness and quiet for good sleep, practiced by many ancient cultures, aligns with modern sleep hygiene recommendations. The communal aspect of sleep in many societies reminds us of the importance of feeling safe and connected for restful sleep. The ongoing evolution of human sleep practices continues to this day.
[317] History of Sleep in Medieval and Early Modern Europe — Some of their recent findings suggest that segmented sleep patterns still exist in some areas of the world and that they can be encouraged by certain environmental factors. The history of sleep in the medieval and early modern periods is informing the ways in which sleep scientists research sleep patterns today.
[318] Sleep in western culture: A historical perspective | Sleep, Health, and ... — Before the Industrial Revolution, sleep in western households differed in a variety of respects from that of today. Arising chiefly from a dearth of artificial illumination, the predominant form of sleep was segmented, consisting of two intervals of roughly 3 hours apiece bridged by up to an hour or so of wakefulness.
[320] Segmented Sleep in Preindustrial Societies - PMC — I was intrigued to learn of the study conducted of three pre-industrial cultures, without access to electric lighting, by a team of researchers led by Dr. Jerome Siegel in an effort to determine how humans slept “before the modern era.” Titled “Natural Sleep and Its Seasonal Variations in Three Pre-industrial Societies,” it appears in the November issue of Current Biology.1 Having written on the predominance of “segmented sleep” in preindustrial Europe,2 I was particularly surprised by the discovery reported by Yetish et al.1 that the members of all three of these equatorial societies did not “regularly awaken for extended periods in the middle of the night.” In short, these individuals did not experience a “bimodal sleep pattern.” The authors conclude, “by extension,” that this pattern was “probably not present before humans migrated into Western Europe.
[323] Conclusion: Overview, Emerging Trends, and Future Directions in Sleep ... — Sleep is a very broad and interdisciplinary field that has attracted a great deal of research interest, initially (i.e., 1950s) from psychology and the neurosciences and, more recently (i.e., since the 1980s), clinical interest has emerged from various medical and health-related disciplines (neurology, pulmonology, psychology, psychiatry, dentistry, nursing).
[325] PDF — This paper provides an overview of the current use, limitations and future directions of the variety of subjective and objective sleep assessment available. We argue for various ways and sources of collecting, combining and using data to enlighten clinical practice and the sleep research of the future. We highlight the prospects of digital
[326] Sleep neuroimaging: Review and future directions - Pereira - Journal of ... — Summary Sleep research has evolved considerably since the first sleep electroencephalography recordings in the 1930s and the discovery of well-distinguishable sleep stages in the 1950s. ... 5 SLEEP NEUROIMAGING CHALLENGES AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS. Sleep neuroimaging comes with considerable challenges due to the unnatural environment that makes it
[327] The Future of Sleep Studies - Johns Hopkins Medicine — The Future of Sleep Studies | Johns Hopkins Medicine , medical director of Johns Hopkins Center for Sleep at Howard County General Hospital. At-Home Sleep Testing Devices Conducting sleep tests at home is going to become a lot more common, says Gamaldo. While these portable devices are becoming increasingly more accurate, some people may still need to come to the lab for a more comprehensive or sophisticated look at their biorhythms during sleep, says Gamaldo. Smartphone apps and wearable tracking devices will become more common in the sleep research field,” says Gamaldo. For example, video web conferences can help doctors and researchers consult with patients about sleep health. Researchers also want to study how lack of sleep and poor quality sleep impacts other conditions such as diabetes and heart disease, she says. Sleep
[328] The adverse impact of excessive smartphone screen-time on sleep quality ... — Sleep disturbances have drastic adverse effects on physical and mental health. Poor sleep quality has been reported to increase the risk of weight gain, obesity, metabolic syndrome, hypertension, glucose intolerance, and diabetes 3, 4, 5, 6.
[330] The hazards of excessive screen time: Impacts on physical health ... — The hazards of excessive screen time: Impacts on physical health, mental health, and overall well-being - PMC The hazards of excessive screen time: Impacts on physical health, mental health, and overall well-being Excessive screen time is a growing concern in modern society, with the proliferation of digital devices contributing to increased sedentary behavior and potential hazards to physical health, mental health, and overall well-being. In particular, the article examines how excessive screen time can affect physical health, mental health, and overall well-being. This article will explore the potential health and mood deterioration caused by excess screen time and encourage individuals to take a break from digital devices and engage in activities that promote physical activity and face-to face interaction.
[332] Screen Time and the Brain - Harvard Medical School — While these devices can enhance learning and build community, they can also interfere with everything from sleep to creativity. The growing human brain is constantly building neural connections while pruning away less-used ones, and digital media use plays an active role in that process, according to Rich. Children need a diverse menu of online and offline experiences, including the chance to let their minds wander. A good night’s sleep is also key to brain development, and HMS researchers have shown that using blue light-emitting screen devices like smartphones before bedtime can disrupt sleep patterns by suppressing secretion of the hormone melatonin.
[333] Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of using AI-enabled ... — AI has been shown to play a role in the assessment, diagnosis, and management of sleep disorders. 2 AI has facilitated advancements in patient monitoring and management, polysomnography (PSG) sleep scoring, behavioral sleep medicine, and digital therapeutics (see Table 1).
[334] AI Transforms Sleep Monitoring and Medicine | SERP AI — Smartphones and wearable devices have become crucial tools in sleep research and medicine, offering continuous monitoring capabilities. The Apple Watch's internal sensors can track sleep quality and provide personalized recommendations, while apps like Sleep.ai use sound analysis to detect sleep apnea, snoring, and teeth grinding.
[335] Artificial intelligence in sleep medicine: background and implications ... — Therefore, sleep medicine is well positioned to benefit from advances that use "big data" to create artificially intelligent computer programs that may lead to: (1) more accurate classification and diagnosis of diseases and disorders, (2) prediction of disease and treatment prognosis, (3) characterization of disease subtypes, (4) precise