Story perspectives

Study Links Insomnia to Disrupted Circadian Rhythms

12/3/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A University of South Australia study finds chronic insomnia may arise from disruptions in the brain's circadian rhythm.
People with insomnia show a significant delay in mental alertness, maintaining daytime-like cognitive activity at night.
In contrast, healthy sleepers display a natural decline in cognitive engagement during nighttime.
The study suggests interventions such as timed light exposure and mindfulness to strengthen circadian rhythms and improve sleep outcomes.

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Story summary

A University of South Australia study finds chronic insomnia may arise from disruptions in the brain's circadian rhythm.
People with insomnia show a significant delay in mental alertness, maintaining daytime-like cognitive activity at night.
In contrast, healthy sleepers display a natural decline in cognitive engagement during nighttime.
The study suggests interventions such as timed light exposure and mindfulness to strengthen circadian rhythms and improve sleep outcomes.