Sleep deprivation linked to increased depression risk

Research presented by Professor Mitsunori Nakata of the University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, indicates that sleeping less than six hours a day significantly increases the risk of depression, regardless of total working hours.

In a study of approximately 3,700 employees, researchers found that individuals who secured at least six hours of sleep did not show a statistically significant increase in depression prevalence, even when working 8 to 10 or more hours per day. Conversely, for those sleeping less than six hours, longer working hours directly correlated with higher depression rates. Those who subjectively felt sleep-deprived faced roughly double the risk of depression.

Neurospace Inc. hosted a seminar to discuss these findings, noting that sleep deprivation often leads to the loss of REM sleep, which is critical for emotional recovery and stress management. The seminar highlighted that even those who feel they are sleeping “moderately well” may already face increased risks, suggesting that companies should aim for employees to feel they are sleeping “sufficiently well.”