Quality sleep has been revealed as a crucial factor in fostering resilience against depression and anxiety, according to a study conducted by researchers at the University of York. The research emphasizes that chronic stress poses a substantial risk for various mental health disorders, but the combination of high-quality sleep and effective coping strategies, such as reframing negative situations, can help prevent the development of poor mental health.
During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, a prolonged and stressful period, the study examined data from over 600 participants. The aim was to test the hypothesis that positive coping strategies, supported by high-quality sleep, could promote positive mental health outcomes. The unique context of the pandemic provided an opportunity to address the research questions comprehensively.
THE SIGNIFICANCE
Emma Sullivan, a PhD student from the Department of Psychology at the University of York, highlighted the significance of the study, stating, “This is the first study to investigate the ways in which positive coping strategies and sleep quality influence depression and anxiety when experiencing a real-world chronic stressor. We found that better sleep quality was associated with fewer symptoms of both depression and anxiety during the initial months of the COVID-19 pandemic.”
The findings underscore the importance of addressing both positive coping strategies and sleep quality during prolonged periods of chronic stress. By targeting these factors, individuals can enhance their ability to manage stress and safeguard their mental well-being.
THE METHOD
The research utilized data from the Boston College Daily Sleep and Well-being Survey, where participants regularly reported their sleep quality and mental well-being during the pandemic. In addition to sleep and mental well-being, the survey collected information on various factors, including age, gender, ethnicity, alcohol consumption, quarantine status, and physical activity levels.
Dr. Scott Cairney, a PhD supervisor from the Department of Psychology at the University of York, explained, “We have known for a long time that high-quality sleep is associated with better health and well-being outcomes, but we wanted to know whether this would change if sleep and coping strategies were put under intense and prolonged periods of stress, as it was for so many during the pandemic. We found that sleep plays a hugely important role in the management of chronic stress and can sustain well-being over a long period of time, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.”
The study’s findings have been accepted for publication in the journal Cortex, shedding light on the significant connection between sleep quality and mental health outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Improve sleep
- Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, even on weekends.
- Creating a relaxing bedtime routine.
- Avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed.
- Making sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
- Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed.
- Exercise regularly, but not too close to bedtime.
- Create a relaxing bedtime routine.
- Get regular medical checkups.
- If you have trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor.
