The Connection Between Sleep and Memory

Just like every other aspect of our lives, sleep can be the differentiator between many health aspects of our brain. One specific part of this relationship that is impacted is our memory. Our memories and ability to remember are greatly related to our sleep patterns. This relationship is so strong, in fact, that recent studies have found a connection between bad sleep patterns and accelerated memory diseases such a Alzheimer's. 

There are two main ways that our sleep patterns impact memory. 

1. Lack of Sleep Impacts our Ability to Learn New Things

In order to remember something, we need to actually see, hear and process it. Inadequate sleep is proven to impact a person's ability to comprehend external situations, to focus on their surroundings and to actually learn something while being taught.

One comparison to the mental impact of inadequate sleep is to that of a drunk person. Slow reaction time, impaired decision making and difficulty focusing can all be symptoms of sleepiness. 

2. Sleep Makes Memories Stick

The second is that sleep is what actually makes memories stick. During REM sleep, our brains process what we have learned and commit them to memory. Without this REM sleep - which can only happen during sleep - memory consolidation doesn’t happen. REM is one of the last sleep stages that happen in a cycle. It can take anywhere between 1.5 - 2 hours to enter REM. This time does shorten, but only the longer you are asleep. Quick naps in replacement of a full night’s sleep can impact the ability to enter REM and commit things to memory.

Now, everything from the day’s events to a new skill and a book you read are processed during this time. There is no way to pick and choose what “memories” are processed at what time.  This memory consolidation during sleep is vital to a healthy mind and memory. 

The Role of Sleep in Learning and Memory

This relationship between sleep and memory is, therefore, twofold. We need to be rested in order to learn and experience life properly at the same time that we need sleep to actually remember things. In this case, then, sleep can actually improve your memory by giving you enough brain power to learn new things as well as being the bodily function that makes us remember. 

This is one of the main reasons that universities and education systems fight against pulling all-nighters before a big test or exam. Studying during the day and then getting a good night’s sleep will actually help you perform better on tests. 

Sleep and Memories

If you find yourself forgetting things, having trouble focusing and can’t seem to recall parts of your recent life, consider your sleep patterns. Are you getting enough sleep?

If you want to catch up on sleep, remember that sleep debt is a thing and it might take a few days of getting quality sleep to notice a difference.