WERU KINYUA: Why sleep is the foundation of mental health

Star-blogs24 September 2026 – 09:08

by JAMLICK WERU KINYUA

If you have ever taken a long flight or worked a night shift, you know the feeling
of being moody, fatigued or unfocused

These changes stem directly from
disruptions to your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Circadian rhythms are
24-hour internal cycles that regulate body temperature, hormone production,
sleep and activity levels. A disrupted circadian rhythm can significantly
elevate the risk of mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder

While earlier research relied heavily on small sample
sizes and self-reported sleep data, recent studies present far more compelling
evidence. Research reveals that individuals with disrupted rhythms — such as
those who remain active late at night or inactive during the day — experience
higher rates of mood disorders. Furthermore, these disruptions are linked to
lower overall well-being, impaired cognitive function and slower reaction
times.

These findings support the idea that disturbed circadian
rhythms are linked to poor mental health. Crucially, they demonstrate that
simple activity tracking could serve as an effective early detection tool to
identify individuals at risk of depression or bipolar disorder before symptoms
escalate

In our modern society, this problem is growing rapidly.
Artificial light, particularly at night, severely disrupts our internal clocks.
Moreover, life in urban environments constantly exposes millions of people to
pervasive light and noise pollution, fragmenting sleep patterns and destabilising
mood. As global urbanisation accelerates, more people will live in cities,
significantly heightening the widespread risk of circadian disruption and the
mental health challenges that follow.

While we have long understood the importance of sleep
for physical health, science now confirms that it is equally crucial for mental
health. Understanding and protecting our circadian rhythms must become a
priority in preventing and managing depression, chronic stress, and mood
volatility. Prioritizing healthy, consistent sleep habits is no longer a
luxury; it is an essential foundation for our overall well-being.

Student, Mount Kenya
University, Thika Campus

Bachelor of Arts in
Mass Media and Communication