Study Reveals 5 a.m. as Worst Time for Mood, Highlighting Circadian Rhythm's Impact
Research on over 2,500 medical interns shows mood dips lowest at 5 a.m. and peaks at 5 p.m., independent of sleep deprivation.
- Medical interns experience their lowest moods near 5 a.m., with an uplift by 5 p.m., based on the analysis of Fitbit data from over 2,500 participants.
- Sleep deprivation exacerbates mood swings, further lowering mood levels and enhancing mood variability throughout the day.
- The study utilized continuous data collection over two years, including heart rate, steps, sleep, and daily mood scores, making it a significant inquiry into the impacts of work stress and sleep patterns on mood.
- Researchers discovered that mood follows a rhythm connected to the body's internal clock, and the clock's influence increases as someone stays awake longer.
- Noninvasive tools such as Fitbits or other smart watches could be useful in tracking mood disorders and circadian rhythms.