Better Sleep Can Put a Smile on Your Face

The Link Between Sleep Health and Happiness

We all want to be happy, right? But there’s one thing that often gets overlooked when it comes to happiness: sleep! Research shows that getting good sleep plays a huge role in our well-being. Getting enough of the sleep we need helps us balance our emotions, reduces stress, boosts our brain function, and just makes us feel better overall. When we get good sleep we can handle tough situations more easily, maintain positive relationships, and stay on top of things day-to-day. By understanding how sleep and happiness are connected, it’s clear that making sleep a priority could be a key to a happier life.

How Sleep Affects Mood
One of the most immediate ways sleep impacts happiness is through its effect on our mood. When we don’t get enough sleep, we can feel irritable, stressed, or generally out of sorts. On the other hand, getting enough sleep helps regulate emotions and fosters a positive mood which can help us look on the bright side of things. When we get good sleep, our brains can process emotions better, which can reduce mood swings and give you a greater sense of well-being. Findings from NSF’s 2025 Sleep in America^® Poll found 87% of American adults said that getting enough sleep has a positive impact on how happy they feel and 86% felt the same benefits after getting good quality sleep.

If we’re getting the sleep we need, we can also experience benefits in our broader mental health. Poor sleep can contribute to conditions like anxiety and depression, and people with chronic insomnia are at a higher risk for these issues. The good news is, NSF research found that over 90% of American adults with very good overall sleep health said they had no significant depressive symptoms. The same is true for teens! Nearly 80% of teens who practice healthy sleep behaviors are also free of significant depressive symptoms.

The Role of Sleep in Physical Health
We talked about how sleep can affect your mental health, but sleep can also affect the rest of your body. When we don’t feel physically well, it’s hard to stay positive. Health issues like diabetes and heart disease are linked to sleep deprivation. These conditions can lower your quality of life and increase stress, which can, in turn, reduce happiness.

On the flip side, good sleep supports physical health, contributing to a greater sense of well-being. Getting enough shut-eye can strengthen your immune system, boost your energy levels, and improve vitality, helping you feel more capable and resilient in your daily life.

Better Sleep for More Smiles
By making sleep a priority, we open the door to greater happiness and well-being. Being your Best Slept Self^® can pave the way for a brighter, more joyful future, and that’s something to smile about.