Lack of sleep linked to negative thinking

Conclusion This study has found an association between shorter sleep and increased reported RNT. However, there are a few points to bear in mind when considering how applicable the results of this study would be to the general population, people who have a mental illness or are particularly affected by RNT: due to the cross-sectional measure of sleep patterns at one point in time, we cannot tell whether lack of sleep, or delayed sleep, causes RNT or whether RNT causes sleep disturbance – both directions of effect are plausible none of the participants in the study were reported to be suffering from any mental illness or other conditions that may affect the level of RNT they were all young, adult students it could be argued that they may have been of a certain personality type to have been willing to complete seven extensive questionnaires sleep patterns of people in this particular age group who are at university are unlikely to be representative of the sleep patterns they will have at other times of their life However, commonsense tells us that a lack of sleep is likely to make any negative thoughts or mood worse. Tips on how to get a better night’s sleep can be found here. If you are suffering from unwanted, repetitive thoughts that are causing you distress, talk to a healthcare professional. There are a range of simple techniques that can help, in addition to more formal methods such as cognitive behavioural therapy. Analysis by Bazian. Edit...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Lifestyle/exercise Mental health Source Type: news