Investigating How Staying Awake Late at Night Affects Mood and Suicide Risk in Adults with Recent Suicidal Thoughts Aged 18 to 55

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the link between being awake during the biological night 200-400 AM and increased risks of negative mood, impaired decision-making, and suicidal thoughts. This study focuses on adults who have experienced suicidal ideation within the past six months, aiming to understand how biological timing and sleep pressure may contribute to suicide risk during late-night hours. Participants will undergo two different sleep conditions one where they stay awake until 200 AM to create high sleep pressure, and another where they sleep and are awakened at 200 AM to create low sleep pressure. During both conditions, mood, suicidal thoughts, impulsivity, and decision-making will be assessed overnight in a laboratory setting. The study also uses behavioral and physiological measures, including melatonin levels, to examine circadian influences. During the study, participants will take part in assessments at home and in the lab, focusing on mood, hopelessness, suicidal ideation, impulsivity, and executive function, especially during the critical 200-400 AM window. Researchers will monitor feelings of hopelessness, negative mood, and decision-making abilities at specific visits. The study seeks to clarify how nocturnal wakefulness affects these factors and may help identify biological mechanisms underlying suicide risk. The total participation period includes assessments across different days and nights under controlled conditions.

Mind After Midnight