According to the research, intern mood cycles reach their lowest point around 5 a.m., coinciding with the deepest trough of the circadian cycle. These low points become even more pronounced when sleep deprivation is present, resulting in intensified negative emotions and increased volatility throughout the day.
Danny Forger, a senior author of the study and a professor of mathematics and computational medicine and bioinformatics at the U-M Medical School, explains that mood follows a rhythm connected to the body’s internal clock. This connection becomes stronger as someone stays awake longer, highlighting the significant role our body’s clock plays in mood regulation.
The study emphasizes the importance of considering both circadian rhythms and sleep deprivation when examining mental health issues. By utilizing wearable technology such as Fitbits, researchers hope to explore these factors further and potentially develop new strategies for managing mood disorders.