Episode 152

full
Published on:

11th Jul 2024

Can 4 Hours of Sleep Really Kill You?

Have you ever wondered how the quality of your sleep impacts your mental health? Or how the intricacies of sleep deprivation can influence everything from decision-making to long-term brain health? In this riveting episode of "Cracking Addiction," Dr Ferghal Armstrong and Dr Richard Bradlow dive deep into the complex, bidirectional relationship between sleep and mental health. Whether you're grappling with insomnia, curious about ADHD, or just keen to improve your sleep hygiene, this episode packs a wealth of information and actionable advice. Listen to gain valuable insights and transform how you view the power of sleep.

**Sleep and Mental Health Interlink**


In this episode, Dr Ferghal Armstrong and Dr Richard Bradlow explore various mental health disorders, such as melancholic and atypical depression, and their distinct sleep patterns. They discuss how poor sleep can aggravate existing mental illnesses and vice versa. Understand why sleep is crucial and how its deprivation can lead to cognitive and emotional impairments. Gain practical, scientific knowledge on how to enhance your sleep quality and, by extension, your mental health.


**Best Quote:**


"Sleep deprivation ultimately kills you, and it kills you quicker than starvation."


**Learning Outcomes:**


1. **Understanding the Bidirectional Relationship:** Explore the fascinating concept of the bidirectional relationship between sleep and mental health. Learn how poor sleep can precipitate mental health issues like anxiety and depression and how these conditions can further deteriorate sleep quality. Understanding this relationship can prompt more effective treatment approaches. Practising better sleep hygiene can potentially alleviate some symptoms of mental health disorders.


2. **Melancholic vs Atypical Depression:** Differentiate between melancholic and atypical depression regarding their impact on sleep. Melancholic depression is linked with early morning awakenings, while atypical depression is associated with hypersomnia. This knowledge can help you identify what type of depression may be affecting you or your loved ones. By recognizing these patterns, you can seek appropriate treatment options.


3. **Impact of Sleep Deprivation on Cognitive Function:** Realise how sleep deprivation affects cognitive functions, such as decision-making and ethical awareness. Discover that being awake for 16 hours renders cognitive impairment equivalent to a 0.05 blood alcohol level. This insight can incentivise you to prioritise sleep, especially if your day-to-day activities involve crucial decision-making. Adequate sleep can improve your productivity and emotional well-being.

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About the Podcast

Cracking Addiction
Cracking Addiction Podcast
Welcome to Cracking Addiction, the show that delves deep into the world of addiction medicine. Hosted by Addiction Medicine Specialist Dr Ferghal Armstrong, this podcast covers a broad range of addiction-related topics, from the science behind addiction to the various treatment options available.


Each week, the hosts provide listeners with engaging and informative discussions on all aspects of addiction medicine. From alcohol and drug addiction to gambling addiction, they explore the various types of addiction and their impact on individuals, families, and communities.


With a focus on evidence-based information, Cracking Addiction provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of addiction, including the latest research and treatment options. Whether you are struggling with addiction or simply interested in learning more about the topic, this podcast is an excellent resource.


The show also features regular guests and experts who share their insights and experiences on addiction-related topics.

With new episodes released every week, Cracking Addiction is your go-to source for the latest information and insights on addiction medicine. So join us as we explore this complex and fascinating topic and work to break the cycle of addiction.


Visit our website for more information and free courses https://go.meducate.com.au/courses

About your host

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Dr Ferghal Armstrong

Dr Ferghal Armstrong is a general practitioner, Addiction Medicine Specialist (FAChAM), accredited MATOD trainer as well as the CEO and co-founder of Meducate