A recent study suggests that being a “morning person” may offer a significant boost to mental health and overall wellbeing. According to new research published in the British Medical Journal Mental Health, individuals who wake up early in the day report higher levels of life satisfaction, happiness, and a greater sense of self-worth compared to their nighttime counterparts.
The study, conducted by University College London, analyzed data from over 49,000 participants across twelve surveys conducted between March 2020 and March 2022. The researchers aimed to explore patterns in mental health and wellbeing, finding that respondents tended to experience better mental health during the morning hours.
Morning Mental Health Benefits
The findings of the study suggest that people experience a psychological uplift in the morning, marked by a reduction in depressive symptoms and a heightened sense of self-worth. Respondents reported increased happiness and life satisfaction early in the day, which gradually diminished by the evening.
Key insights from the study include:
Mental Health in the Morning: Participants experienced an improvement in mental health early in the day, including higher life satisfaction, less severe depressive symptoms, and greater happiness.
Peak Self-Worth: Self-worth was notably higher in the morning hours, reflecting a positive self-assessment early in the day.
Midnight Slump: Mental health and mood significantly declined around midnight, with participants feeling less satisfied and more prone to depressive symptoms.
Weekend Variability: Mental health and mood fluctuated more on weekends, suggesting a disruption in routine and potential impacts on emotional stability.
Stable Loneliness: Loneliness levels remained relatively constant throughout the week, indicating a consistent emotional experience regardless of the time of day.
Understanding Wellbeing
While the study primarily focused on mental health, it also touches upon the broader concept of wellbeing. Wellbeing encompasses not only mental health but also emotional, physical, and spiritual health. According to the World Health Organization, wellbeing is shaped by social, economic, and environmental factors, as well as a person’s sense of purpose and quality of life.
Factors Behind the Morning Mental Health Boost
Although the study did not delve into the specific reasons behind the morning boost, researchers suggest several possibilities. Increased sunlight exposure, improved sleep quality, and a renewed sense of purpose in the morning may all contribute to a more positive mental state early in the day.
It’s important to note that while many participants felt better in the morning, this does not imply they felt “good.” The concept of feeling better is relative, and mood fluctuations throughout the day are common. Mental health, as opposed to temporary moods, remains a more stable and long-term condition.
Conclusion
This study highlights the potential benefits of a morning routine for mental health, with people reporting significant improvements in wellbeing and happiness early in the day. Further research may explore the underlying causes of these patterns and how individuals can better harness the morning hours for their mental health.
Related Topics
