The quality of our sleep is central to our mental wellbeing, but the relationship between the two is complex. Professor of Neuroscience at Bristol University, Matt Jones, spends his days analysing other people’s nights, so we spoke to him to find out more about the science behind sleep and its impact on mental health. From grumpy mornings and insomnia, to bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and PTSD, the amount we sleep could impact our every waking moment. Finding the answer to a perfect night’s sleep, meanwhile, could be as simple, as a siesta in a hammock. Make yourself a cocoa and settle down for a dreamlike Episode 4.
Show outline:
00:00:07 - 00:02:18 - Welcome to the episode
00:04:56 - 00:11:15 - Why do we need a good night’s sleep?
00:11:27 - 00:21:44 - Sleep and mental health
00:21:51 - 00:28:41 - Talking and other possible ways to improve sleep
00:28:42 - 00:31:14 - The power nap
00:31:08 - 00:38:34 - Sleep hygiene, exercise and racing thoughts
00:38:35 - 00:45:00 - Sleep changes with age and future studies
Useful links:
Professor Matt Jones - University of Bristol profile: Professor Matt Jones - Our People (bristol.ac.uk)
The science of Sleep with Matt Jones - YouTube: https://youtu.be/J9cVSnCVzbk?si=rQ3FzJNSsGl0Du27
Why can’t I sleep? The benefits of good sleep hygiene | Wellcome
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Full Transcript:
Click here: https://midlifeonearth.com/2023/10/23/the-brave-front-episode-4-how-sleep-affects-mental-health/