The Connection between anxiety sleep and Cognitive Performance

The link between anxiety, sleep, and cognitive performance is supported by strong neurobiological evidence. Anxiety increases stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, disrupting normal sleep architecture—particularly REM and deep sleep stages essential for memory consolidation and cognitive restoration. Sleep loss, in turn, impairs the prefrontal cortex, reducing attention, reasoning, and emotional control, which can heighten anxiety. This bidirectional relationship forms a cycle of mental fatigue and poor performance. Studies show that improving sleep quality through cognitive-behavioral therapy or relaxation practices can lower anxiety levels and enhance overall cognitive efficiency.