Sleep Shortage

People today are not getting one of the most important things they need to live a beneficial life: sleep. Free and healthy, sleep is a vital necessity we need to survive. Professor Diana Grant, a leader in the study of sleep, says that we need more sleep then we are allowing ourselves to have.

On average, Prof. Grant says we get about seven hours. We should actually be getting nine to 10 hours. Some of that sleep should be taken in afternoon naps.

"People get less because they don't make time or think it is the macho or the sophisticated thing to do. They figure they don't need it, that the rules don't apply to them, that they can get more work done. It may work for a while but sooner or later they they begin to suffer the consequences," says Professor Grant.

Professor Grant has found that there can be many side effects of not getting enough sleep. Without enough sleep people can become safety hazards to themselves and those around them. Being tired makes people unaware which can cause them to be clumsy, stupid, slow and depressed.

Many disaster can be linked to the account of not having enough sleep. Professor Grant believes that the Exxon Valdez oil spill, the accident at Russia's Chernobyl nuclear reactor and the space shuttle Challenger all were had a part of the same thing involved. The element of sleeplessness was involved in some way with all of those situations. By getting more sleep, it is possible that these disasters could have been avoided.

A study was done by Professor Grant that proved sleep is important in avoiding accidents. In spring, daylight saving (DST) makes people lose an hour of sleep. The day after spring DST, there was an 8% increase in accidents. Whereas in the fall, when clocks retreat back to standard time and an hour is gained, there were less accidents.

To help avoid accidents and disasters what can we do? We can make time, find a place and get some good sleep.

"First, you need someplace that is dark and quiet. Shut off all the lights and draw the shades," instructs Professor Grant. "Second, its good to relax for an hour or so before going to bed. Watch TV or read a good book."

Other ways of making sure you fall asleep is not eating or drinking close to bed time. Especially stay away from alcohol or caffeine. It is also advised that you stay away from sugary foods and tobacco. These all stimulate the brain rather then help you relax and fall asleep. A productive tomorrow starts today. So remember to get some sleep.