Algiers, DZWatch – A new study sheds light on why individuals suffering from insomnia struggle with persistent overthinking, particularly at night. Researchers have uncovered evidence suggesting that a disruption in the brain’s natural 24-hour cycle of mental activity is a key factor in the inability to switch off and achieve restful sleep.
The study, conducted by scientists, represents a significant step forward in understanding the cognitive fluctuations experienced by those with chronic insomnia compared to healthy sleepers. The research team monitored a group of older adults – half with insomnia and half without – over a 24-hour period in a controlled laboratory setting. Participants remained awake in bed, allowing researchers to isolate and observe the brain’s internal rhythms.
The results indicated that while healthy individuals exhibited a clear rhythmic pattern, with peak mental activity in the afternoon and a low point in the early morning, those with insomnia showed notable differences. “Unlike good sleepers, whose cognitive state transitioned predictably from daytime problem-solving to nighttime disengagement, individuals with insomnia failed to make this shift as strongly,” explained a lead researcher.
The study emphasizes that sleep is not simply about closing one’s eyes; it involves the brain disconnecting from goal-oriented thinking and emotional engagement. The research suggests that this disengagement is weaker and delayed in cases of insomnia, likely due to disturbances in the circadian rhythm. This means the brain may not be receiving strong enough signals to ‘switch off’ at night.
Insomnia, characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, can lead to daytime fatigue and negatively impact both physical and mental well-being. Symptoms include trouble initiating sleep, frequent awakenings, early morning awakening, daytime tiredness, and difficulty concentrating. This research offers valuable insights into the underlying neurological mechanisms of insomnia, potentially paving the way for more targeted and effective treatments.
