Circadian Rhythms of University Students During Study and Exam Periods

PurposeCircadian rhythms play a critical role in maintaining physiological and psychological balance. University students often experience disruptions in these rhythms due to academic demands, particularly during exam periods. This study examines the impact of study and exam periods on circadian rhythms, sleep quality, physical activity, psychological well-being, and autonomic functions.MethodA prospective observational study was conducted with 30 university students (mean age: 21.1 ± 1.7 years; mean BMI: 24.2 ± 7.2). Assessments included the Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), and Depression-Anxiety-Stress Scale (DASS). Autonomic functions (body temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation, and skin moisture) were measured in controlled environments during both study and exam periods. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon test with a significance level of p