Symptoms and Effects of Sleep Deprivation

My first term in college was truly a learning experience. Not only was I starting my education, I was learning to live for myself. I no longer had to follow anyone’s rules but my own. The problem was, I didn’t know what my rules were yet.

Now, I’m a person that loves to sleep, but back then I decided sleep was my last priority. There were so many exciting people to meet and places to see. Who needs sleep?

During finals week, I stayed awake for four days straight. I don’t know how I did it, but I did. I spend that time making up for all the studying I didn’t do during the term. When I finally allowed myself to sleep, I slept almost fifteen hours.

As it turns out, all that studying was for nothing. I didn’t do well on my exams, and I could not for the life of my figure out why. I went through everything, and thought it was fresh in my mind. What I didn’t realize was that without sleep, I wasn’t learning anything.

Our brains are always working. Even when we are asleep, our brains are active and thinking. When we sleep, our brains process everything we have taken in that day. We don’t really learn anything until we sleep on it. No wonder I did so poorly on my exams. I spent all that time studying, but I didn’t learn anything.

Symptoms

You may, or may not, be aware that you are not getting enough sleep. If you aren’t sure, look for symptoms of sleep deprivation. Some of these include: tiredness, irritability, irrational thoughts, excessive stress, memory or concentration problems, changes in appetite, and vulnerability to sickness. You may be mean, snappy and exhausted.

What Happens?

When you experience sleep deprivation, your brain slows down. It’s not absorbing any knowledge, nor is it working up to par. Your driving abilities will be compromised, as well as your ability to make snap decisions. It also affects your physical well-being and health. Your body relies on sleep each night for healing.
How Much?