Sleep is one of those things in life that we all need yet most of us don’t get enough of. We are generally aware of the importance of sleep in the recovery of our bodies and minds and know we should be better about getting more sleep, but rarely do.
Meanwhile, the consequences of not getting enough sleep are long-term. Sleep is important to immune function (without sleep, we are more susceptible to disease and injury); metabolism (weight management and body composition (i.e. gains in body fat, muscle synthesis/growth)); memory and learning (during sleep, we process existing memories and prepare for new learning); and emotional regulation (prevention of mood disturbances (depression, anxiety, etc.). Without sleep, our mental judgment and physical performance suffer, compounding the risk of additional problems.
In addition, sleep is a key factor in recovery from stress. During sleep, which can trigger what is sometimes referred to as “the relaxation response,” our bodies (and minds) can undergo repair. In fact, I view sleep and stress as two sides of the same coin. Long-term, chronic stress is the most underrated factor affecting our health negatively while consistent quality sleep is the most underrated tool to affect our health positively.
From an educational perspective, this is a potentially significant factor. Studies have linked sleep quality to academic achievement. If we are not getting enough quality sleep, we are not optimizing our academic potential (and experiencing chronic stress). From a diversity perspective, when you add to that the significant differences in sleep habits and attitudes of various ethnic groups, you have an even greater gap in education potential.
According to the CDC, 1 in 3 Americans are sleep-deprived (not getting the recommended 7 hours). According to the National Sleep Foundation, close to half of Americans say that a lack of sleep has affected their ability to perform in the previous week. Yet, the National Sleep Foundation’s 2018 annual Sleep in America poll finds that only 10 percent of American adults actually prioritize sleep over other daily activities, including daily activities specifically related to health, fitness and nutrition.
If sleep is such a (the?) key factor in our physical and mental recovery and our overall health and well-being, why don’t we prioritize it? Even with everything I know about the importance of sleep as a health professional, it remains one of my key challenges (Although I target getting the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep every night, I consistently average only about 6 hours.).
Given the impact sleep (or a lack thereof) can have on both students and faculty and staff at higher education institutions, what is being done about it? Studies that link sleep quality and academic achievement support the concept of higher education institutions providing resources to support and promote quality sleep.
