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Study Links Night Owl Sleep Patterns to Higher Depression Risk in Young Adults

Research highlights poor sleep quality, low mindfulness, and social jetlag as key factors driving mental health challenges for evening chronotypes.

A stock image of a young woman yawning while working late at home.
(© Feng Yu - stock.adobe.com)
Research indicates that sleep preferences affect emotional well-being, with night owls facing higher challenges.

Overview

  • A University of Surrey study, published in PLOS ONE on March 19, 2025, found that night owls face a higher risk of depression compared to early risers.
  • Poor sleep quality was identified as the strongest factor linking evening chronotypes to depression symptoms.
  • Night owls scored lower on mindfulness traits, such as staying present and labeling emotions, which are crucial for emotional well-being.
  • Social jetlag, caused by a mismatch between natural rhythms and societal schedules, contributes to fatigue and reduced mindfulness in night owls.
  • Researchers recommend interventions like mindfulness training, improved sleep hygiene, and flexible schedules to support the mental health of young adults with evening chronotypes.