Psychologist Eleanor Bryant: why some people can drink coffee at night and still relax
Evening coffee is not automatically a recipe for insomnia, according to Eleanor Bryant, Associate Professor of Psychology at the University of Bradford. In fact, for some drinkers, it can feel unexpectedly calming.
Caffeine is widely known as a stimulant, yet its effect varies widely between individuals. Bryant explains that metabolism plays a major role: some people process caffeine quickly, meaning a cup late in the day may barely register as stimulating.
“Some people are naturally less sensitive to caffeine because their body clears it faster,” she says. “For them, drinking coffee in the evening doesn’t necessarily interfere with sleep.”
Beyond biology, there is a psychological side. The act of making and enjoying a cup of coffee can become a meaningful evening ritual. “It acts as a psychological marker,” Bryant notes. “The routine itself can create a small oasis of pleasure, a moment to slow down and switch off.”
Her insights come in collaboration with Philips, which has explored the psychology of coffee drinking and everyday routines. The research suggests that for some, coffee is as much about habit, focus, and comfort as it is about energy.
Bryant cautions that this is not universal. People who feel alert or restless after caffeine should avoid evening cups, as even a small amount can disrupt sleep. But for those less sensitive, the ritual of coffee can support relaxation rather than hinder it, making a late-night cup a comforting habit rather than a stimulant.
