By Clare Panetta, College Psychologist
Sleep is one of the most important factors influencing brain functioning. Especially during adolescents, when biological changes and lifestyle factors push sleep times later and thus reduce overall sleep duration, the effects of too little sleep can be disastrous. Too little sleep leads to daytime sleepiness, difficulties in learning and memory, reduced reaction time and one we all can attest to, poorer mood.
Individuals may reduce their sleep time intentionally to get more done in their day or they may find it difficult to fall asleep, which can create a mode of operating on less sleep than is desired for maximum brain performance. To find out the recommended amount of sleep across the lifespan, check out this infographic from the National Sleep Foundation:
To support the developing brain, it is vital that children and teens learn about the importance of sleep and the habits that can make or break a good night’s sleep. Insomnia, relatively common in teens and adults, should not be put up with. Usually, there are sleep hygiene habits and interventions that can make a positive difference. To follow are some ideas for healthy sleep and a… healthy brain!
Ref: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5074885/
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