The phrase “Just go to bed—you’ll feel better in the morning” carries scientific weight, as highlighted by a recent study in the BMJ Mental Health journal. This study delves into the correlation between the time of day and our emotional states, affirming the common belief that mornings generally herald better moods.
Researchers evaluated aspects of happiness such as hedonic well-being, which includes immediate positive feelings like waking up well-rested or enjoying a healthy breakfast, and eudemonic well-being, which is tied to long-term satisfaction through actions like therapy and gratitude. These elements of well-being are critical for a rich and fulfilling life.
The study involved data from over 49,000 adults recorded at University College London between March 2020 and March 2022. Participants evaluated their feelings at different times of the day, revealing that mental health and well-being peak in the morning and decline towards midnight. Additionally, the research highlighted that mood patterns vary seasonally and even weekly, with weekends showing enhanced positive affect due to different circadian rhythms compared to weekdays.
While summer is often linked to improved mental health because of longer days and warmer weather, the study found weekend mornings particularly elevate clarity and happiness. While these insights may not unlock eternal happiness, they suggest that a simple good night’s sleep might alleviate a turbulent mood.
