Vol. 4, Issue 1, Part A (2022)

Sleep is a fundamental physiological process essential for maintaining optimal cognitive, emotional, and physical health. In recent years, sleep disorders have garnered significant attention due to their pervasive impact on mental health and emotional regulation. Sleep disturbances such as insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and circadian rhythm disruptions interfere with neurobiological systems responsible for mood regulation and cognitive performance. This paper delves into the complex interplay between sleep disorders and emotional dysregulation, emphasizing the bidirectional nature of sleep and mental health. We analyze current clinical and neurobiological evidence linking poor sleep to affective disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Furthermore, the paper evaluates the mechanisms by which sleep disruption impairs emotional resilience, heightens stress reactivity, and deteriorates mental health outcomes. Through a critical review of longitudinal and cross-sectional studies, neuroimaging findings, and clinical interventions, the paper offers insights into potential therapeutic strategies for mitigating the adverse effects of sleep disturbances. The findings underscore the necessity of integrating sleep-focused interventions into mental health care frameworks for holistic and sustainable psychological well-being.