From the Research
Cortisol is the primary hormone increased in work-related insomnia, as evidenced by the most recent study in 2023 1. When individuals experience chronic stress from work demands, their bodies maintain elevated cortisol levels, particularly in the evening when this stress hormone should naturally decrease. This disruption to the normal cortisol rhythm interferes with the sleep-wake cycle, making it difficult to fall asleep and maintain quality sleep. The body's stress response system essentially remains activated, keeping the mind alert and preventing the relaxation necessary for sleep onset. Additionally, work-related rumination and worry can further stimulate cortisol production, creating a vicious cycle of stress and sleep disturbance. Other hormones like adrenaline may also be elevated, while sleep-promoting hormones like melatonin may be suppressed. Managing work-related insomnia typically involves stress reduction techniques, establishing healthy sleep routines, and potentially addressing the underlying workplace stressors to help normalize cortisol patterns.
Some key points to consider:
- The relationship between cortisol and insomnia is supported by multiple studies, including one from 2001 2 that found increased plasma levels of ACTH and cortisol in insomniacs.
- A more recent study from 2020 3 found associations between biomarkers of stress and autonomic function with sleep, sleep-related symptoms, and cognitions among people with chronic heart failure.
- The most recent study from 2023 1 found significant positive correlations between insomnia severity and morning cortisol level, as well as with depression and tension-anxiety.
- Other studies, such as one from 2015 4, have also found associations between objective short sleep duration and changes in blood parameters related to hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity.
- However, some studies, like one from 2004 5, have found decreased morning awakening salivary cortisol in patients with primary insomnia, highlighting the complexity of the relationship between cortisol and insomnia.
Overall, the evidence suggests that cortisol plays a key role in work-related insomnia, and managing cortisol levels is an important aspect of treating this condition.