Suppress Unwanted Thoughts by Getting a Good Night’s Rest

October 17, 2020
Woman with unwanted thoughts

We all have unwanted thoughts from time to time. These thoughts can increase anxiety, heighten depression, affect relationships with other people, and have other negative consequences. Unwanted thoughts may be particularly challenging for individuals who already struggle with a mental health disorder. The human brain has processes in place to help us suppress unwanted thoughts, but doing so is much more difficult under certain circumstances, including when we are suffering from sleep deprivation.

The Link Between Sleep Deprivation and Unwanted Thoughts

In October 2020, the University of York released research that established a connection between unwanted thoughts and a lack of sleep. They found that sleep deprived participants experienced nearly 50% more unwanted thoughts than those who were well-rested. The unwanted thoughts stemmed from negative emotions associated with certain photographs.

The study’s lead author commented, “It is clear that the ability to suppress unwanted thoughts varies dramatically between individuals, but until now the factors that drive this variability have been mysterious. Our study suggests sleep loss has a considerable impact on our ability to keep unwanted thoughts out of our minds.”

Although all of the study’s participants were healthy, its results could have significant implications for individuals who suffer from mental illness, especially mental illnesses that could interfere with sleep. Post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, schizophrenia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder all fall into this category.

Harnessing the Power of Sleep for a More Positive Mindset

Of course, anyone who suffers from a mental illness should seek appropriate professional help. However, everyone, regardless of the state of their mental health, should recognize the value of a good night’s sleep in maintaining a positive mindset.

Relaxation exercises, having a regular sleep schedule, and sleeping in a comfortable environment can all be keys to leading a well-rested life. However, in some cases, more is needed. If you snore loudly, frequently wake up with a headache, or sometimes wake up gasping for air, you may have a sleep disorder known as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA is a physical condition wherein tissues in the throat block the free flow of air during sleep. It can be a major factor in sleep deprivation. Research has even established a strong link between OSA and various mood disorders, including depression and anxiety.

Fortunately, treating OSA is usually not complicated. Something as simple as an oral appliance, which repositions the jaw during sleep, may be all that you need to get the high-quality rest that your body — and mind — need to function at their best.

Do you struggle with unwanted thoughts? Adjusting your sleep habits may help you gain more control over your thinking.

About the Author

Dr. Kenneth Mogell is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. He specializes in providing oral appliance therapy for patients throughout South Florida. If you would like to learn more about Dr. Mogell and how he may be able to help you start getting the sleep you need to feel your best, contact any of his four conveniently located offices.