A Importância do sono para a saúde mental

Abstract

Sleep is a biological phenomenon essential for physical, cognitive, and mental health, but its quality and duration have been progressively reduced in modern society due to accelerated routines and the excessive use of technology. Sleep deprivation directly affects emotional regulation and memory consolidation, increasing the risk of disorders such as anxiety and depression. This study, a literature review, aimed to analyze the scientific production on the relationship between sleep habits and mental health, using the CAPES Periodicals Portal. The methodology involved searching for the descriptors "Sleep" AND "Mental Health," resulting in 87 articles, of which four were selected for qualitative synthesis after applying inclusion (period 2024-2026) and exclusion criteria. The results reinforce that sleep deprivation compromises emotional regulation, neuroplasticity, and connectivity between the amygdala and the prefrontal cortex. A bidirectional relationship was evidenced, where sleep disorders are risk factors for mental disorders, and these, in turn, worsen sleep quality. It is concluded that valuing sleep is an indispensable public health measure, requiring awareness campaigns and policies that promote sleep hygiene for the prevention of mental disorders and improvement of quality of life.