A study by the University of São Paulo reveals a strong connection between personality traits and insomnia, highlighting neuroticism as a major risk factor.
Researchers found that individuals with high neuroticism—characterized by emotional instability—are significantly more likely to suffer from insomnia, a condition affecting nearly 30% of adults worldwide and up to 45% in São Paulo.
The study assessed 595 adults, comparing diagnosed insomniacs with healthy controls using a detailed personality questionnaire based on the Big Five traits: extroversion, neuroticism, agreeableness, openness, and conscientiousness.
Insomniacs scored higher in neuroticism and lower in agreeableness, openness, and conscientiousness. Extroversion showed no significant difference.
Further analysis identified anxiety symptoms as a key mediator between neuroticism and insomnia, explaining how emotional instability contributes to sleep difficulties. Depression was not found to play a significant role in this relationship.
These findings emphasize the importance of evaluating personality and anxiety in insomnia treatment. Experts advocate for personalized approaches that integrate cognitive-behavioral therapy with anxiety management to improve outcomes. The research supports developing tailored psychological protocols to address the complex interplay of personality and sleep disorders.
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