Sleep deprivation – the condition of not having enough sleep – is a common health issue for students in higher education. This issue has several underlying and negative consequences, but there are a few helpful improvements that students can make to reduce its frequency and severity.[1]
On average, university students get 6 to 6.9 hours of sleep every night.[2] Based on the Treatment for Sleep Disorders, the recommended amount of sleep needed for college students is around 8 hours. According to Stanford University's Department for the Diagnosis, 68% of college students aren't getting the sleep they need.[3] The main causes of sleep deprivation include poor sleep hygiene, biology, use of technology, and use of drugs.[4] The effects can damage the student's GPA, relationships, focus and memory,[4] and emotional and mental health. Students may face depression, anxiety, and difficulty maintaining their relationships in a healthy manner.[4][5] There are many possible solutions to combat sleep deprivation including improving bedroom environment, reducing exposure to blue light, and taking naps during the day.[4]
- ^ Maas JB, Robbins RS, Driscoll SR (2015-11-20). "What are the effects of sleep deprivation on the human body?". Cornell Center for Materials Research. Retrieved 2019-11-08.
- ^ "Managing Stress". University Health Center. University of Georgia. Retrieved 2019-11-08.
- ^ "Sleepless at Stanford". Stanford University. Retrieved 2019-11-08.
- ^ a b c d "Sleep Deprivation" (PDF). Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine. 2008.
- ^ Lund HG, Reider BD, Whiting AB, Prichard JR (February 2010). "Sleep patterns and predictors of disturbed sleep in a large population of college students" (PDF). The Journal of Adolescent Health. 46 (2): 124–132. doi:10.1016/j.jadohealth.2009.06.016. PMID 20113918.