When Isamar Almeida began working at a law firm specializing in immigration in 2019, her work there included interviewing clients who had endured traumatic events. "People described nightmares and difficulty falling asleep as daily struggles. That stood out to me because sleep is a central pillar of overall health."

Almeida, who had completed a bachelor's degree in psychology, knew then that she wanted to pursue a Ph.D. in behavioral science. Once enrolled at UNT, she concentrated her research on the health and wellbeing of immigrant communities with a focus on sleep.

Now, Almeida has published a scientific paper with significant findings for the behavioral health field. Her research, published in the Journal of Behavioral Medicine, shows a connection between cardiovascular and metabolic -- or cardiometabolic -- health and sleep duration. While the health risks of sleeping fewer than seven hours per night were previously established, this paper demonstrates that sleeping more than nine hours per night is also associated with poor health outcomes.

"Most people, including researchers and health providers, usually look at the effects of not getting enough sleep. But consistent long sleep can be an indicator of other health issues, and should also be taken seriously."

Isamar Almeida ('25 Ph.D.)

Research project coordinator for Baylor Scott and White Health
"Wearable devices make it easy for people to track their sleep over time, helping them better understand their sleep habits, identify patterns and make changes that support healthier sleep."

Kayla Franco ('26 M.B.A.)

Health educator and wellness coach for UNT Student Health and Wellness Center
"Limiting caffeine -- especially within eight hours of bedtime -- and staying within recommended intake helps prevent sleep disruption. Avoid eating within two hours of going to bed and limit foods that may cause acid reflux or digestive discomfort."

Daniica Slavish

Associate professor in UNT's Department of Psychology and principal investigator for the Sleep and Health in Everyday Life Laboratory
"If you're trying to change your sleep schedule, moving your bedtime and wake time by about 15 minutes every few days is much more sustainable than trying to make big changes overnight."