Addressing Sleep Deprivation
The amount of sleep that people need varies across ages and from person to person. This variation can be related as well to quality of sleep.
An occasional unrestful night is not harmful, however ongoing sleep issues can affect a persons day to day life. While we sleep many important functions take place that help the body in physical recovery and repair.
The importance of sleep
Lack of sleep can affect mood, energy levels, focus and concentration, reaction times and decision making. It can also:
Affect the immune system, resulting in more infections that take longer to resolve
Cause weight gain, as lack of sleep can increase fat storage by increasing insulin release.
Impact hormone levels, as the body may release more of the stress hormone, cortisol.
The cardiovascular system. Therefore long term complications may increase the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, depression and anxiety, obesity and heart attack.
Causes of sleep deprivation
There are many causes of sleep deprivation, including shift work, a poor sleeping environment, using electronic devices too close to bedtime, stress, caring for someone else, chronic pain and other medical conditions.
The causes are many and varied, and the treatments for each person will vary widely. If you are concerned about your quality and length of sleep there are many ways that I can help.
For more information, you can contact me directly, or book an appointment via the booking page.
References & Further Reading: