Lack of Sleep Causes Brain Shutdowns

Sleep deprivation is a serious problem. I know this not only because of research from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, but also because of my own diligent research in the field.

In an apparent lapse of better judgment, we began our study by allowing our teen to invite 16 classmates for a sleepover to celebrate their "graduation" into high school. I swear, it was like herding cats. They were still zipping in and out and up and down the stairs at 5:00 in the morning. They plowed through six pizzas, five large bags of chips, an undetermined amount of snack cakes, a case and a half of soft drinks, and my every last nerve. The next day, I was toast, and my teen has slept the entire weekend.

Sleep deprivation of as little as a few hours a night can cause mini lapses of consciousness that we do not notice, which are particularly dangerous for driving, operating machinery, or other types of equipment or hazards on a job site. It can also affect your child's performance in school. So make sure your schedule, and your child's schedule, include adequate sleep time to ensure safety and to keep your child's mind ready for school.

The Importance of Sleep

• Sleep Disorders - Sleep disorders like insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, narcolepsy, snoring, night sweats and others can be managed.
• Stress and Sleep - Getting a Quality Night's Sleep - Stress and sleep problems seem to go together. While sleep is important for handling stress effectively, being productive, and staying healthy.
• Easing Eye Strain During Reading - Practical ways to help prevent eye strain.
• Does your child get enough sleep?