Five Types of Sleep and Their Impact on Mental Health and Cognitive Processes, as Described by Neuroscience.
A recent study from Concordia University in Montreal reveals that there are five different types of sleep, each with specific consequences on the mind, emotions, and cognition. Published in New Scientist, the research shows that the way we sleep shapes our brain.
Beyond counting hours: sleep as a mirror of the brain
Sleep in humans is not just a biological recovery process. The study analyzed 770 young adults and identified five sleep profiles.
1. Disturbed sleep: trapped in thoughts
This profile includes people who struggle with poor sleep quality, leading to a disconnection in brain networks responsible for self-reflection and attention management.
2. Resilient sleep: good rest, unstable mind
Individuals in this group experience emotional distress but maintain stable sleep patterns, showing resistance to the negative effects of stress.
Study reveals insights into the relationship between sleep and mental health
The study suggests that sleep problems are not just a result of stress, but actively influence brain connectivity and architecture. Sleep is a complex function influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors, according to New Scientist. It’s not a passive action.
Understanding how we sleep, not just how much, is crucial for preventing mental disorders and improving cognitive health. Sleep is a reflection of our emotional life, processing unresolved issues while we rest.
