Which of the following is NOT listed as a potential side effect of sleep deprivation?

• A. Depression
• B. Forgetfulness
• C. Improved mood
• D. Cynicism

Answer: (C)

Sleep deprivation disrupts mood and cognitive processing, making negative effects more likely than any improvement in how you feel. When you don’t sleep enough, emotional regulation gets harder, stress hormones rise, and you’re more prone to mood swings, irritability, and even depressive symptoms. It also impairs memory and attention, so forgetfulness can show up as you struggle to hold and process information. Cynicism or a more negative view of people and situations can arise from this heightened irritability and negative affect. An improved mood simply isn’t a consequence of sleep loss; lack of sleep tends to dull mood and increase negativity. That’s why the option describing an improved mood is the one that doesn’t fit.