Insufficient Sleep: A Public Health Concern

• By
•
Sleep (2)

Sleep is a critical determinant of health and well-being. While many consider it a passive process, it is not! Many active processes are at play while we’re catching those zzz’s, including complex brain changes and the balancing of hormones.

In fact, sleep is essential for…

  • Mental ability, learning, and concentration
  • Healthy growth and development (70% of growth hormone is secreted at night)
  • Tissue growth and repair (HEALING!)▫️ Immune system health
  • Sugar metabolism
  • Cardiovascular health
  • Emotional well-being

From a rehabilitation standpoint, sleep DEPRIVATION is linked to:

  • Decreased athletic performance
  • Decreased coordination
  • Headaches
  • Stomach problems
  • Allergies
  • Skin problems
  • Respiratory difficulties
  • Increased pain sensitivity

The National Sleep Foundation recommends 8-10 hours/night for teens aged 14-17 and 7-9 hours/night for adults aged 18-64. Unfortunately, American adults only average 6.8 hours/night and college students even less.

I encourage you to SLOW DOWN. Emphasize rest and relaxation every day. Use your vacation time. Prioritize sleep. No doubt you will be happier and healthier when you do.