Sleep and mental health are intimately connected in a way that is so fundamental, it often goes unnoticed until problems arise. Quality sleep can brighten your mood, enhance your cognitive abilities, and even stabilize your emotions. Conversely, inadequate sleep can lead to a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and irritability. Researchers believe this is due to the way sleep interacts with the neurotransmitters in our brain, which are crucial for regulating mood.