The Dangers of Sleep Deprivation
Whether it is self-induced because you are trying to get more out of your days, or caused by a sleep disorder such as insomnia or sleep apnea, sleep deprivation can take a dangerous toll on your health, safety, and well-being. One of the effects of sleep deprivation is impaired judgment including an impaired perceptive of sleepiness and alertness, so people who are suffering from sleep deprivation often think they are doing just fine when they are not.
- Serious health problems. Sleep deprivation increases your risk of multiple health problems including heart disease, heart failure, heart attack, obesity, diabetes, stroke, high blood pressure, and decreased sex drive.
- Impaired cognitive function. It impairs concentration, alertness, attention, memory reasoning ad problem solving.
- Impaired learning ability. Memories are consolidated during deep sleep. When this can’t happen you do not retain what you have learned throughout the day.
- Accidents. Lack of sleep contributes to auto accidents, accidents and injuries on the job, and has contributed to major disasters including the nuclear accidents at Three Mile Island and Chernobyl.
- Depression and anxiety. Sleep deprivation contributes to depression and anxiety. Depression and anxiety can also underlie sleep disorders.
- Diminished quality of life. Sleepiness can make it difficult to enjoy the activities you want to participate in, such as going to movies. Crankiness and lack of attention can interfere with your relationships with loved ones.
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