Targeting sleep to improve anxiety and depression in young people

Genetic, epidemiological, and experimental evidence suggests that sleep and circadian rhythm disruption is implicated in the causation of psychiatric disorders. We hypothesise that such disruption influences neurobiological mechanisms that underpin emotion regulation, driving the development and maintenance of anxiety and depression. This research will examine how sleep restriction therapy (SRT), the most effective single component treatment strategy for insomnia, improves mental health. We will perform two randomised controlled trials to test the effects of SRT on sleep physiology, circadian timing, arousal, and neural mechanisms sub-serving emotion regulation. In a third study, we will develop and test an adaptation of SRT - combining it with light therapy - aimed at augmenting depression outcomes. We will recruit young adults because this is the recognised risk period during which symptoms typically incubate, and the time at which early intervention may be most helpful. Our programme of work is informed by lived experience experts, who will be involved in every aspect of the research, and supported by Vocal, an organisation dedicated to inclusive public involvement in health research. Our work will deliver new insights on the link between sleep disruption and mental health, and lead to refinement of sleep intervention for patient benefit.