Why You Need to Get Enough Sleep

Can’t focus? It’s hard to do when you haven’t slept. You’ll also have trouble learning new stuff. And when you do, you’ll need some shut-eye to remember it. Doctors call this consolidation — sleep strengthens the links between brain cells that form memories. That’s what makes learning stick.


Sleepy drivers cause at least 100,000 highway crashes a year. Nodding off at the wheel isn’t the only problem. A lack of rest can lead to a drop in what doctors call mental performance. You’re less motivated, focused, and happy. And you don’t think as clearly. This doesn’t just apply to road warriors. One study showed hospitals could cut mistakes by more than a third if they gave doctors more time to sleep.

Do you get a little snippy when you’re short on sleep? That’s normal. Just one bad night can make you sad, stressed, angry, and tired. If the trouble lasts, you may start to feel worse about your life. You might not want to hang out with friends and family. Over time this can lead to mood disorders like depression or anxiety. A better sleep routine is the answer. Talk to your doctor if it doesn’t help or if your symptoms get in the way of your life.
Sleep less than 6 hours a night? You’re more likely to get heart disease. Doctors aren’t sure how it works, but they know lack of sleep raises blood pressure, stokes your stress, and boosts adrenaline. Each can take a toll on your ticker.

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