Choose Sleep!

545 Words2 Pages

Imagine staying up 11 days straight without sleep to watch soccer. Do you think you could handle it? A 26-year-old Chinese man could not, after 11 days without sleep he was found dead. (“What Are the Health Risks of Sleep Deprivation?”) Sleep deprivation is more than just small problem, the side effects of not getting enough sleep can take your life. The large majority of facts about sleep deprivation are unknown to the general public, and because of this they put themselves in harms way unknowingly. People of all ages should work harder to get more sleep; sleep deprivation has numerous causes, detrimental effects, but many possible solutions.
Knowing the causes of sleep deprivation could be considered one of the most important steps in preventing it. Poor sleep hygiene such as drinking coffee and smoking just before you go to bed can be a cause. Personal choices is also a big cause, people do not realize they need sleep and choose to stay up doing other activities such as; socializing, watching TV, or even reading a book. (Better Health Channel) Work, school, and caring for someone who is ill are all examples of obligations that can prevent people from getting the proper amount of sleep they need. (American Academy of Sleep Medicine) Lastly, medical problems which include colds, medications, sleep apnea, mental illnesses, and much more also play a role in sleep deprivation. (Falling Asleep)
The effects of sleep deprivation range from minor to severe; because of this it is important to stop sleep deprivation early on to avoid severe effects. Effects can vary with age. Adults and teens can experience side effects such as constant yawning, dozing off, and overly tired when first waking up. Children experience such side effects as ...

... middle of paper ...

...t even realizing it. Making yourself aware of the causes, effects, and solutions of sleep deprivation can give you the step up that you need to avoid it. Considering all of this, how will you sleep tonight?

Works Cited
“Sleep Deprivation.” American Academy of Sleep Medicine. N.p., 2008. Web. 25 Feb. 2014. .
“Sleep Deprivation.” Better Health Channel. N.p., 30 Sept. 2013. Web. 25 Feb. 2014. .
“Sleep Deprivation.” Falling Asleep. N.p., 2014. Web. 25 Feb. 2014. .
“What Are the Health Risks of Sleep Deprivation?” Huffpost Healthy Living. N.p., 27 June 2012. Web. 9 Mar. 2014. .

Open Document