A recent perspective article in the journal Neuron explores the dual role of stress in both disrupting and promoting sleep, delving into the biological pathways behind these effects. The authors suggest that after certain stressors—especially emotional or immune challenges—stress-induced sleep, demonstrated primarily in animal studies, might act as a protective, adaptive mechanism that enhances recovery and resilience. This process involves important brain areas like the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and lateral habenula. However, this adaptive response appears to be context-dependent and may not always provide benefits.
Background
Sleep, comprising REM and non-REM phases, is essential for health in humans and animals. Though its exact functions are still debated, sleep is believed to support various physiological processes across the brain and body. Sleep deprivation causes significant stress both physically and mentally. Both humans and animals have a strong urge to sleep, with prolonged wakefulness leading to severe consequences, including death in rodents. The relationship between stress and sleep is complex: stress can trigger arousal systems that interrupt sleep, but it can also increase sleep need.
Arousal systems like the locus coeruleus noradrenergic pathway help maintain vigilance during sleep, a vital evolutionary trait for survival. Yet, excessive activation by stress can fragment sleep and lower its quality.
Most studies focus on stress-induced insomnia, but this paper highlights a paradoxical phenomenon—stress-induced sleep—seen under certain conditions. Understanding this process could reveal new ways to use sleep to boost resilience and recovery.
