When it comes to being creative, the human brain can create art that not only appeals to people visually but also evokes some emotion. While there is just as much good it can do, an unwanted thought can jet out occasionally. These can make you feel a bit more negative or distressed, and a lack of sleep can only make them worse. Keep reading to learn how and how your dentist may help.
Is There a Link Between Sleep Deprivation and Unwanted Thoughts?
In a study by the Department of Psychology at the University of York, the lead author, Dr. Marcus Harrington, set out to find out why intrusive thoughts seem to get worse with sleep deprivation. He stated how the mundane can turn into a stressful situation by remembering past experiences. While they normally pass quickly, he noticed how keeping unwanted thoughts out was affected by sleep loss.
Dr. Harrington asked 60 healthy participants to associate faces with photos that are emotionally and negatively charged (such as war zones) or neutral ones (such as a cityscape). The group then went to bed and either had normal sleep or total sleep deprivation and were told to suppress thoughts that were related to the scenes they were shown.
The sleep-deprived participants were seen to have higher difficulty in stopping unwanted thoughts. Compared to the well-rested group, who had a much easier time.
How Does Sleep Apnea Impact Intrusive Thoughts?
While sleep apnea may cause symptoms, such as chronic exhaustion and cardiovascular problems, many people don’t realize how it can impact mental health. You may be more likely to suffer from depression or anxiety, but as the study revealed, not getting the rest you deserve can increase unwanted thoughts.
Thankfully, sleeping through the night can help you manage and limit them overall. By seeking help when you notice the signs of sleep apnea, you can get one step closer toward treating it. Your dentist can help you by giving you a custom oral appliance. This helps keep your airways open and prevents sleep apnea episodes throughout the night.
If you wake up feeling more tired than when you went to bed or have frequent intrusive thoughts, then you may want to rule out sleep apnea as the root of the problem. Your dentist may be able to refer you to the right professionals and get you the treatment you need for better rest.
About the Author
Dr. Daniel Weldon earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. With over 15 years in the field, he knows how staying on top of recent research helps his patients get the best care possible. Dr. Weldon is a proud member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine to help raise awareness of sleep apnea and give the community the right treatment they need. If you or your partner tends to snore loudly throughout the night, schedule an appointment or call (352) 622-3236.