Sleeping Disorders and Their Impact on Mood
Discover how sleep disorders can affect your mood, mental health, and daily life. Learn about common types of sleep disorders, their effects on mood, causes and strategies for effective management and better emotional well-being.
Written by Dr. J T Hema Pratima
Reviewed by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai MBBS
Last updated on 26th Aug, 2025
Introduction
Sleep is essential for our physical and mental well-being. However, many people struggle with sleeping disorders, which not only affect their rest but also have a significant impact on their mood, emotions, and overall mental health. If you or someone you know has trouble sleeping and feels irritable, anxious, or depressed, this article will help you understand the connection between sleep and mood and what you can do to improve both.
What Are Sleeping Disorders?
Sleeping disorders are conditions that disrupt normal sleep patterns, making it difficult to fall asleep, stay asleep, or get restful sleep. Some common sleep disorders include:
1. Insomnia – Difficulty falling or staying asleep.
2. Sleep Apnoea – Breathing interruptions during sleep.
3. Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) – An uncontrollable urge to move legs, especially at night.
4. Narcolepsy – Sudden, uncontrollable episodes of sleep during the day.
5. Circadian Rhythm Disorders – Misalignment between the body’s internal clock and external day-night cycle (common in shift workers).
Consult a Sleep Medicine Specialist for the best advice
How Do Sleeping Disorders Affect Mood?
Poor sleep doesn’t just leave you feeling tired; it can deeply affect your emotions and mental health. Here’s how:
1. Increased Irritability and Anger
Lack of sleep makes it harder to control emotions, leading to frustration and short temper.
Small issues may feel overwhelming, causing mood swings.
2. Higher Risk of Anxiety and Depression
Chronic sleep deprivation disrupts brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine, which regulate mood.
People with insomnia are more likely to develop anxiety and depression.
3. Poor Stress Management
Sleep helps the brain process emotions and stress. Without enough rest, stress builds up, making it harder to cope.
4. Reduced Concentration and Memory
Sleep is crucial for memory consolidation. Poor sleep leads to forgetfulness, difficulty focusing, and poor decision-making.
5. Emotional Sensitivity
Sleep-deprived people often react more strongly to negative situations, feeling sad or upset more easily.
Common Causes of Sleeping Disorders
Several factors contribute to sleep problems, including:
Stress & Anxiety – Overthinking and worry keep the mind active at night.
Poor Sleep Habits – Irregular sleep schedules, excessive screen time before bed.
Medical Conditions – Thyroid issues, chronic pain, asthma, or heart disease.
Lifestyle Factors – Caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, or late-night eating.
Environmental Factors – Noise, light, or uncomfortable sleeping conditions.
How to Improve Sleep and Mood
If you’re struggling with sleep and mood disturbances, here are some practical tips to help:
1. Stick to a Sleep Schedule
Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day (even on weekends).
Helps regulate your body’s internal clock.
2. Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine
Avoid screens (phones, TV) at least 1 hour before bed.
Try reading, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
3. Optimize Your Sleep Environment
Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet.
Use comfortable pillows and mattresses.
4. Limit Caffeine and Alcohol
Avoid caffeine (coffee, tea, soda) after 2 PM.
Alcohol may help you fall asleep but disrupts deep sleep.
5. Exercise Regularly
Physical activity improves sleep quality and reduces stress.
Avoid intense workouts close to bedtime.
6. Manage Stress and Anxiety
Practice mindfulness, yoga, or journaling to calm your mind.
If anxiety keeps you awake, consider talking to a therapist.
7. Avoid Long Naps
Short power naps (20-30 mins) are fine, but long naps can interfere with nighttime sleep.
8. Seek Professional Help if Needed
If sleep problems persist, consult a doctor.
Conditions like sleep apnoea may require medical treatment.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience any of the following, it’s best to seek medical advice:
Persistent insomnia (trouble sleeping for more than a month).
Loud snoring or gasping for breath (signs of sleep apnea).
Excessive daytime sleepiness affecting work or daily life.
Severe mood swings, depression, or anxiety linked to poor sleep.
Final Thoughts
Sleep and mood are deeply connected. Poor sleep can make you feel irritable, anxious, or depressed, while good sleep improves emotional resilience and mental clarity. By adopting healthy sleep habits and seeking help when needed, you can restore restful sleep and a balanced mood.
Consult a Sleep Medicine Specialist for the best advice
Consult a Sleep Medicine Specialist for the best advice
Dr. Arjun Ramaswamy
Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist
9 Years • MD (RESPIRATORY MEDICINE), DM (PULMONARY MEDICINE, CRITICAL CARE AND SLEEP MEDICINE)
Mumbai
Apollo Hospitals CBD Belapur, Mumbai
(50+ Patients)
Dr. Suresh G
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
25 Years • MBBS, MD
Bangalore
Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore
(225+ Patients)
Dr Helan Rajan
Ent Covid Consult
5 Years • MBBS MS ENT
Pune
Apollo Clinic, Nigdi, Pune
Dr. Shiba Kalyan Biswal
Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist
18 Years • MBBS,MD,DM(AIIMS Delhi)
Gurugram
APOLLO SUGAR CLINICS GURUGRAM, Gurugram
Dr Srinivas Rajagopala
Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist
20 Years • MBBS, MD (Int Med), DM (Pul & Crit Care), Fellowship in Lung Transplantation (Toronto)
Chennai
Apollo Cancer Speciality Hospital, Teynampet, Chennai
