Sleep Deprivation

Sleep deprivation is a common sickness, which mainly occurs in adults, there are ways to beat it. Many people have to deal with sleep deprivation when leading stressful and chaotic lifestyles or who have newborns, although this sickness is often seen in different age groups as well. "According to a 2003 National Sleep Foundation poll, sleeping disorders plague nearly 50 million people across the United States every year. That means approximately one in six Americans struggle with these problems."(1) I picked this topic because studies show "two-thirds of adults need 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night. People who are well rested feel alert and do not have the urge to nap."(2) I average only about 5 to 6 hours at the most which makes it understandable why I can't stay focused. Getting this much sleep can really run me down after a while, I think that if I could get more sleep, I would experience less drowsiness during the day and would perform better in school, work and other things.

When doing research and speaking to a physician and my psychology professor, it has been recommended that melatonin, which is produced by the pineal glands to enhance sleepiness, which helps you overcome insomnia (which is sleep deprivation) should be taken to help. I have also considered to change some of my habits by cutting down on coffee, soda and other stimulants, such as red bull, during the day, although caffeine drinks do help me deal with my lack of sleep. I may perhaps start an exercise program for myself that would help me cope with my problem by making my body tired and want to get rested when I go to sleep.

If I do not deal with and change my sleeping patterns I could experience various negative consequences such as mood swings or mental blocks. "Some experts think sleep helps the brain recharge its energy and store memories for the long term. Sleep, also seems to help the body fight off infection" (3). You may also develop stress and anxiety from schoolwork or from your job due to your lack of sleep. However, due to the stress and anxiety problems there is a possibility to then develop a form of depression, sleep walking and nightmares which are some of the side effects that people who inhibit insomnia experience.

Here are some tips to help surpass sleeping problems: