The research reveals that after midnight, the brain is more vulnerable to impulsiveness, negative emotions and even dangerous thoughts
Midnight always brought a certain air of mystery. This is the moment when everything that surrounds seems more silent and darkest, and the mind often gives space to thoughts that do not appear during the day. What was once just a feeling, now it begins to be explained by science. Our brain really works differently after the midnight watch.
The mind after midnight
According to researchers of Massachusetts General Hospital and from Harvard Medical SchoolThe hypothesis is that the circadian rhythm (biological watch at 24 hours) changes not only sleep but also emotions and behaviors. With the body scheduled to rest, staying awake during this period can open the doors to impulsiveness and risky decisions.
Published in the magazine Frontiers in Network PsychologyThe study describes the phenomenon as “Mind after midnight” (Mind after midnight). Scientists claim that at night brain activity undergoes neurophysiological changes that influence mental clarity, emotional regulation and the ability to control impulses.
“The basic idea is that, from a global evolutionary point of view, its internal biological clock is in tune with the processes that promote sleep, it does not watch it [ficar acordado]After midnight “explains the researcher Elizabeth Kmitarman. For her, this represents a risk not only for those who remain awake, but also for those who surround them.
Why is Dawn more risky?
Several factors help to explain why dark thoughts and impulsive attitudes arrive more strongly right now. Studies show that dopamine, a neurotransmitter connected to the reward system, has a greater activity at night, which can give control of desires. Furthermore, in this interval, the feelings of solitude, anxiety and despair tend to intensify, while there is less chance that someone intervene.
Sleep disorders such as insomnia and nightmares also increase emotional vulnerability and can generate risk behaviors. Reducing the activity of the frontal lobe, a region associated with the reasoning and control of impulses, is another element that makes the dawn particularly delicate.
Impacts on daily life
The effects of “mind after midnight” do not limit themselves to serious conditions. To those who have never wanted to eat sweets at dawn, spend hours on social networks or make promises that seem exaggerated at dawn? These daily situations reflect exactly the difficulty of the brain in the processing of information in a balanced way at dawn.
The lack of sleep further intensifies the problem, compromising memory, mood and decision ability. For professionals who work in the night shift – such as doctors, pilots and police – the risks can be even more serious. After all, they deal with situations that require maximum attention and mental clarity.
Science lessons
During the evolution, our ancestors were modeled to live in the light of the day and protect themselves in darkness when the dangers were bigger. This inheritance still influences our biology: at night, especially after midnight, the tendency is that negative emotions will become more intense and more frequent impulsive behaviors.
Although studies are still ongoing, a conclusion is clear: to respect the natural rhythm of the body and ensure that good nights of sleep are essential to preserve not only mental health but also safety.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
