Examining the associations between sleep behaviours, emotional regulation and distress

Difficulties with maintaining optimal sleep behaviours are widespread. Evidence suggests significant relationships between sleep disturbances and health outcomes, with consequences including increased risk, severity, and difficulties with management of health conditions. Disrupted sleep behaviours are associated with inefficient self-regulation and emotional regulation suggesting sleep behaviours as a modifiable risk factor for inclusion in psychological interventions for health management.

Systematic literature review:

Social jetlag (SJL), a misalignment between mid-point of sleep on work and free days, has been suggested as a factor in mental health. Biological and social changes characteristic of young people may increase propensity for SJL and distress. The narrative review included seven quantitative papers to assess the relationship between SJL and mental health in young people. Although evidence was equivocal, associations between depression and SJL in female participants particularly in high latitude regions were indicated. An agreed outcome set for mental health and sleep research should be developed to support further research into these relationships.

Research project:

Diabetes-related distress (DRD) is associated with poor emotional regulation and poor diabetes outcomes, whilst optimal sleep behaviours and self-compassion have been linked with improved emotional regulation and health outcomes. This cross-sectional study assessed relationships between sleep behaviours, self-compassion, and DRD in a sample of people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (n=136). Statistical analysis identified significant associations between sleep behaviours, DRD, and self-compassion. Daytime sleepiness, SJL, age, total self-compassion, and negative subscales of self-compassion were unique predictors of DRD, with daytime sleepiness partially mediating the relationship between self-compassion and DRD. Psychological work to reduce DRD should focus on reducing negative traits of self-compassion and include consideration of sleep behaviours. Further research is needed to establish causality and long-term impact, as well as to develop clinical resources to support the effective management of the psychological impact of DRD.