Sleep Deprivation Can Affect Your Mental Health

Sleep and mental health are so closely related that it has been widely viewed that sleep disorders – such as insomnia – are common symptoms of depression and other psychological illnesses. There is mounting research evidence, however, that suggest sleep deprivation can actually contribute to the development of some mental disorders.

Among the most recent studies to generate evidence pointing to insomnia as a cause to psychological problems is a research  conducted by scientists from the Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute at the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom. The analysis from the randomised controlled trial revealed that 'sleep disruption is a driving factor in the occurrence of paranoia, hallucinatory experiences, and other mental health problems in young adults with an average age of 25'.

The tests involved 3,755 university students across the UK, in which one group received online cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) for insomnia, while the other group were not given access to standard treatments.

Those who received the CBT sleep treatment exhibited large reductions in insomnia, as well as small, sustained reductions in paranoia and hallucinatory experiences. The treatment also led to improvements in depression, anxiety, nightmares, psychological well-being, and daytime work and home functioning. Researchers said the results of the trial only proves that insomnia may actually be a contributory cause of psychological difficulties.

Dr. Shadi Sharifi, Specialist Neurologist / Sleep Medicine at the Saudi German Hospital Dubai, French Board of Sleep Medicine and member of Emirates Neurology Society, said, "Our brain and body stay remarkably active while we sleep.  Sleep deficiency has negative impact on our brain functions and impair the nerves cells' connections, which in the long term might progress to many chronic health conditions such as cognitive dysfunction, depression, anxiety, heart failure, hypertension, Type 2 diabetes, obesity, etc."

"Both adequate amount and quality of sleep are important to our optimal daily performances and activities," added Dr. Shadi, who will be among the key speakers at the upcoming Sleep Expo Middle East.

Noting the importance of a good night's sleep to people's psychological health, Sleep Expo Middle East will be held from April 11 to 13, 2019 at the Dubai Festival City Arena. The first-of-its-kind event in the region dedicated to the sleep movement, the show is set to host sleep experts and innovators to discuss and display the latest innovations in the sleep technology space.

The three-day trade exhibit will showcase some of the breakthrough sleep technologies and solutions available in the market today, as well as feature dynamic live product demonstrations. There is also a two-day c onference (April 11 for B2B and April 13 for B2C) designed to engage attendees in  thought-provoking keynotes and general sessions, as well as exciting and interactive panel discussions. A special highlight of the event is the  Sleep Care Zone, a dedicated area for guests to try services that will aid them in better sleep. Among the most interesting features of the zone are free Sleep Consultations with experts from top-notch brands Nurture to Sleep and London Sleep Centre, Yoga-Nidra Classes, Foot Massages, and more.

Further information on Sleep Expo Middle East, including exhibitors' list, conference agenda and side events, are available at  www.sleepexpome.com .