To be healthy
To perform better
To feel good and relax
To stay safe
For fun with friends
To be healthy:
Youth need more sleep than adults to aid them in growth and development. Yet, statistics show that youth are getting less sleep than they need. Sleep, defined by the state of decreased motion, mental rest, and hormone changes, is necessary for growth, muscle development, effective healing and a strong immune system. It is also critical for the brain and mental health, as lack of sleep can lead to impaired memory, frustration, or even depression. It can also trigger mania in those with bipolar disorder. Perhaps most underappreciated is that, "Chronic sleep loss may hasten the onset of several diseases," according Harvard researchers. Long-term health problems that have been linked include heart disease, heartburn, chronic fatigue syndrome, impaired glucose tolerance and hypothyroidism; more research is necessary to understand the mechanisms by which these problems are related to sleep. Sleep loss may also impair metabolism and contribute to becoming overweight. Sleep apnea, a specific sleep disorder sometimes related to snoring, can also cause heart and brain damage due to lack of enough oxygen during sleep. Lastly, many people are injured or even killed, especially in car accidents, due to lack of attention caused by sleep deprivation. A consistent and reasonable amount of sleep is important, and under-appreciated, even by many doctors! About 60% of Americans report sleep problems, and 70 million have actual sleep disorders costing about 100 billion dollars in accidents and lost productivity.
To perform better:
Sleep is critical for attentiveness in the classroom and other situations. Sleep deprivation is often misdiagnosed as ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), and children are improperly treated with drugs, when all they need is more sleep! Sleep is also necessary for the effective memory formation, and youth that sleep well perform better in school than those which don't sleep enough. Sleep also helps athletes by aiding muscle repair and boosting energy levels.
To feel good and relax:
Lack of sleep causes mental confusion and generally makes people feel crummy. Few people disagree that consistent sleep (both sufficient amounts and a regular time schedule) improves mood. On the other hand, consistently too much sleep (i.e. sleeping in all day, etc.) can be a sign of depression, if simultaneous with other symptoms.
To stay safe:
Lack of sleep is a major reason for car accidents and other accidents at home, work and school. A good nights rest helps people to Be Aware or their surroundings, and make good choices.
For fun with friends:
Youth who sleep well are less irritable and less reactive, which is critical for fostering good friendships. Being well rested also helps youth and adults have the energy to engage in physical activity and enjoy other social outings.
