The Impact of Sleep Patterns on Mental Health Outcomes Among Tertiary Students in Ghana: A Correlational Study

Sleep is essential for emotional and mental well-being, yet its influence on university students in Ghana remains underexplored. This study examined how variations in sleep duration and sleep quality relate to stress, anxiety, and depression among tertiary students. A total of 1,000 students from various academic disciplines and year groups participated by completing a questionnaire that assessed their sleep habits and mental health using standard instruments such as the PHQ-9, GAD-7, and the Perceived Stress Scale. The average sleep duration reported was 6.8 hours per night, which falls short of the recommended amount. Many students also indicated moderate sleep quality. The results showed clear associations between inadequate or poor-quality sleep and higher levels of psychological distress. Students who slept fewer hours or experienced disturbed sleep were more likely to report elevated symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. These effects were more pronounced among female students, first-year students, and those enrolled in demanding academic programs such as Science and Engineering. The findings emphasize the need for student-focused interventions and campus policies that promote healthy sleep habits. Improving sleep could serve as a practical step toward enhancing mental health and overall academic performance among university students in Ghana.