Why do we hate Mondays?

Charlie Naebeck for AnnArbor.com

Its 6 a.m. and the feeling of warmth and slumber fills your consciousness from head to toe as you happily dream. Then all of a sudden bzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz, the alarm sounds sending panic and unease throughout the bedroom.

What, where, who, when, how, we think?!? Welcome to Monday morning.

Many people have the sluggish sense of anxiety on Monday morning, feeling as if they are greeted by harsh reality. Others attempt to jump to the occasion by drinking copious amounts of coffee or caffeinated beverages to place themselves into a state of readiness.

Why is this? What changed between Sunday and Monday? Was it that feeling of relaxation over the weekend? Or is it simply the fact that work, school, and responsibilities are upon us?

Austrailian researchers have found in studies that many attempt to catch up on their "sleep debt" over the weekend. Many attempt to push themselves to the limits during the week to meet deadlines and pursue other activities, which throws sleep patterns out of whack and cause us to sleep in on weekends.

According to the study, sleeping in on weekends can disturb your body's natural patterns, which actually leaves you more tired come Monday morning. Researchers reported this was because the subjects' circadian rhythms - which determine patterns of alertness and tiredness - had been disturbed, creating an effect similar to jet lag.

Other research suggests that while seven to eight hours a night is healthy, under five hours or more than eight is unhealthy, and linked to disorders such as heart disease, depression, diabetes, high blood pressure and can compromise the immune system.

Whether you call it a "Case of the Mondays," "Monday Hell," or simply are a slow starter on Mondays, sleep patterns play a large role in how your Monday will start out.

Charlie Naebeck is a freelance photographer specializing in editorial, portraits, and weddings. Contact him at: charlie@charlienaebeck.com or online at: www.charlienaebeck.com.