Running on Empty

Every college student knows the pressures and demands of finals week. Many will get very little sleep and for some, it will be a routine to only run on four to six hours of sleep. Not only are college students managing the demands of school, but many maintain a job and an internship. A good night's sleep with eight to ten hours is a rare occurrence for the busy lifestyle of a college student.

Studies find that 20 percent of college students suffer from sleep disorders. The concerns for lack of sleep is its short and long term effects on the body. Sleep deprivation can have serious effects on your health in the form of physical and mental impairments. Little rest impairs our ability to think, handle stress, maintain a healthy immune system and moderate our emotions. These things not only effect our body, but our ability to excel and do well in school.

The brain's ability to problem solve is greatly impaired. Decision-making abilities are compromised, and not enough rest can also cause people to have hallucinations. Other common effects of sleep deprivation include depression, heart disease, irritability, slower reaction times, slurred speech and tremors.

The causes for college sleep deprivation may be from unusual schedules, social activities and work. Excessive partying, worrying, or cramming for exams are other examples for the cause of sleep deprivation.
So I know you're wondering what are the solutions to sleep deprivation. There's a lot you can do to get a better nights sleep. First of all get more sleep and get better sleep. Things you can do to get a good night's sleep are drink tea, no caffeine past three, read a book, meditate, work out a couple hours before bed, but not right before bed. Get to know your body and how much sleep you need to feel refreshed and energized in the morning.

When school, work and other demands are having an effect on your sleep, remember that getting a good night's rest is very important to the mental and physical well being of your health. There are many things that college students can do to get well rested before that final exam. Don't overwork yourself and treat yourself to a night of relaxation.