Have trouble sleeping in a new place? Most do because of the first-night effect
Summary
Many people find it harder to sleep well during their first night in a new place. This is called the "first-night effect," where the brain stays more alert, causing lighter and shorter sleep.Key Facts
- The first-night effect makes people fall asleep slower, wake up more, and sleep less overall in a new environment.
- This effect is thought to be an evolutionary adaptation to stay alert in unfamiliar places.
- Studies show the brain’s frontal lobe is more active during sleep in new places, leading to lighter sleep.
- On average, people sleep about 20 to 30 minutes less on the first night away from home.
- The effect is stronger in children, teens, and older adults, and less in people in their 20s.
- Stress, travel, and environmental factors, like noises or lights, can make the effect worse.
- People who are naturally anxious may have more trouble sleeping the first night.
- The first-night effect usually fades after the first night in the new place.
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