Is Sleep Deprivation Affecting How You Feel?
May 16,2019
In today's fast paced 24/7 world, many people have completely lost sight of the health benefits gained from getting a good night's sleep. Recurring sleep deficiencies can lead to unwanted weight gain, cause anxiety and depression, increase pain levels, leave you feeling fatigue, and result in hormonal imbalances. Sleep deficiencies can be linked to a greater risk of developing cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, kidney disease, diabetes and stroke. Furthermore, sleep deprivation can directly impact how you get along with friends, family members and co-workers.
Not getting enough sleep at night prevents the body from strengthening the immune system and balancing hormone production. Sleep deprivation can negatively affect a wide range of human behaviors, such as:
- excessive daytime sleepiness
- lack of ability to focus
- growing sleep debt
- difficulty learning new concepts
- increased carb cravings
- reduced desire and sex drive
- forgetfulness and fatigue
- no motivation to get it done
Sleep not only affects your mood, but your mood affects your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep. Anxiety and worry increase feelings of arousal, which can make it difficult to sleep by keeping your body alert, awake, agitated and aroused. Some fail to get a nominal amount of sleep due to a demanding job, shift work, or other obligations. Nonetheless, not getting an adequate amount of sleep can affect hormone production, including growth hormones, hunger hormones and testosterone in men. Sleep deprivation also causes the release of insulin, which leads to increased belly fat and a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
The relationship that you have with sleep affects your physical and emotional well-being. Unfortunately, some people consider sleep to be a waste of time and they deprive themselves of normal sleep time to purse business, educational or personal goals. As a general rule, if you wake up tired and spend the day longing for a chance to have a nap, it's likely that you're not getting enough sleep. Your mental sharpness and emotional health as well as your relationships with others at work or play depend on the sleep you get. By now, it should be clear that a good night's sleep is essential for living a healthy life. If you've been struggling at night or constantly feel tired in the morning, schedule an appointment at PrimeMED in Jacksonville, Orange Park or St. Augustine.
