According to a study conducted by US researchers, pulling an all-nighter can have long-lasting effects on happiness. The research found that missing out on just one night of sleep can reshape the brain, leading to feelings of giddiness. While the immediate effects include increased sexual arousal and aggression, the study also revealed that the brain experiences an antidepressant effect for several days following sleep deprivation.
This can be attributed to a rise in dopamine, the hormone responsible for feelings of pleasure. Professor Yevgenia Kozorovitskiy from Northwestern University emphasized the importance of understanding how casual activities like sleepless nights can significantly impact the brain in a short period of time.
The NHS recommends adults to get seven to nine hours of sleep each night, as chronic sleep loss can lead to various health issues, such as heart disease, diabetes, and dementia. The study, which was published in the journal Neuron, focused on the effects of sleep deprivation in mice.
The researchers observed increased activity and sexual behaviors in the sleep-deprived mice, along with higher dopamine levels in their brains. This hormone also caused changes in specific brain regions, prolonging the feelings of happiness.
The researchers suggested that this effect may have evolved as a defense mechanism against predators in nature. However, they cautioned against regularly pulling all-nighters to enhance mood, emphasizing the importance of a good night’s sleep for overall well-being.
Instead, they recommended alternative activities such as exercise or going for a walk to boost mood. Furthermore, this new knowledge could be valuable in determining the right antidepressant for individuals, highlighting the significance of matching each person with the most suitable treatment.
