Study Links Caffeine Use Disorder to Sleep Problems Among University Students

Caffeine is one of the most prevalent psychoactive substances, often consumed for increased alertness and reduced fatigue. University students, facing demanding academic schedules and long study hours, frequently use caffeine. While moderate consumption can enhance wakefulness, excessive or poorly timed intake can degrade sleep quality.

Sleep disturbances are linked to difficulties in daily functioning, poor mood, and heightened risk of depression. Thus, caffeine use and mental health may be intertwined through various behavioral and psychological pathways. Understanding why individuals consume caffeine—be it for alertness, mood regulation, social interaction, weight control, or withdrawal relief—is crucial in examining these relationships.

Some individuals develop problematic caffeine use patterns, struggling to reduce their intake despite adverse outcomes. Caffeine use disorder symptoms often correlate with increased psychological distress, anxiety, and sleep problems.

Researchers, led by Shekh Tanjina Islam Dola, examined the interplay between caffeine consumption motives, disorder symptoms, depression, and sleep issues in university students. They utilized statistical methods to analyze the associations among these factors and assess direct and indirect pathways.

The study involved 530 students from the Barishal division at two public universities: Patuakhali Science and Technology University and University of Barisal, with an average age of 22 years and a demographic composition of 57% male. Among them, 72% reported consuming caffeine, averaging 1.9 cups of drinks like tea or coffee daily.

Participants filled out surveys assessing sociodemographic information, caffeine consumption motives (using the Caffeine Motives Questionnaire-21), caffeine use disorder symptoms (Caffeine Use Disorder Questionnaire-10), sleep quality (Medical Outcomes Study Sleep Scale), and depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-9).

Findings indicated that caffeine intake was notably higher among smokers compared to non-smokers, as well as among students with loans or debts, those in certain academic years, and individuals from families with lower monthly incomes. No significant associations were found with age, gender, residency, or income.

The research linked more severe caffeine use disorder symptoms directly to increased sleep problems and depressive symptoms. These depressive symptoms were partially mediating the effect between caffeine use disorder and sleep disturbances. Notably, craving and withdrawal motives were identified as significant factors connecting the disorder to adverse mental health and sleep outcomes.

The authors concluded that there is a high prevalence of caffeine consumption among university students in Bangladesh, with important psychological correlates such as depression and sleep issues. They suggested that craving and withdrawal symptoms could significantly bridge caffeine use disorder with mental health challenges and sleep disturbance.

While the study enhances understanding of caffeine consumption's relationship with mental health, it is important to note that the findings may not be generalized beyond university students. Additionally, the cross-sectional nature of the study limits causal interpretations.

The paper titled "From caffeine use motives to sleep disturbance: network and structural equation modeling of caffeine use disorder and depression among caffeine consumers" was authored by Shekh Tanjina Islam Dola and colleagues.