Research Accepted project proposals The Dynamics of Sleep and Depressive Symptoms in Young Adults: A Computational System Dynamics Study

Author: Jeroen Uleman

Affiliation(s): University of Copenhagen

 

Keywords: system dynamics, sleep, depressive symptoms, mental health, young adults

Research question(s): What are the primary drivers (factors, interconnections, and feedback loops) that contribute to sleep disturbances and mental health issues in young adults?

Abstract:

Rates of sleep disturbances and depressive symptoms have been steadily rising, with young adults showing particularly elevated risk. These issues are often interlinked, forming a feedback loop where poor sleep can exacerbate depressive symptoms, which in turn can disrupt sleep. System dynamics modeling is suited to capture such complexity, allowing for a holistic view of how individual factors and their feedback loops contribute to this cycle.

We have previously developed a causal loop diagram that outlines the biopsychosocial variables most relevant to sleep and mental health problems in young adults. In this project, we will convert this diagram into a data-driven system dynamics model using longitudinal data from the Healthy Brain Study. This model will allow us to explore and simulate the potential impacts of targeted interventions over time, providing insights into
effective leverage points for breaking the cycle of sleep and mental health problems.