Getting adequate sleep is important for productive life
Sleep when you’re busy. Sounds counterintuitive, right? You may be thinking, “How am I supposed to sleep when I have to finish a project, study for a midterm and work the late shift?”
Emily Tuschhoff
In reality, it is a balancing act, but it’s doable with proper planning and dedication. Getting enough sleep, especially during those busy times, will allow you to be more alert and you’ll likely perform better on tests, assignments and at work.
The National Sleep Foundation recommends young adults get seven to nine hours of sleep each night, and according to the University of Idaho National College Health Assessment data, only 11.2 percent of UI students report getting enough sleep to feel rested in the morning six or more days of the week.
Lack of sleep and restfulness is not unique to UI. Americans are getting less and less sleep over the decades — and sleep experts have noted a lack of sleep impacts weight gain, car accidents, poor school performance, depression and other issues.
The question about why Americans — in particular students at UI — aren’t getting adequate sleep deserves significant attention.
What also deserves attention is the question of how students can get adequate sleep and still have time for assignments, studying, class, work, clubs and friends. Luckily, there are some tips to getting a good night’s rest.
1. Focus on time management
Oftentimes, lack of sleep is caused by “too much to do.” Sleep is essential to keep our minds and bodies operating at peak performance, so even though your to-do list is adding up, it’s essential to get enough sleep in order to finish those tasks.
2. Keep a planner
Maybe a planner is not your thing, and you prefer to use your phone, iPad or sticky notes. Find what works for you. What system will allow you to be where you need to be on time and set aside time in your day for self-care?
3. Be realistic about time
Make health, sleep health in particular, a priority. Sometimes this means turning down other obligations in order to rest and take care of yourself.
4. Set the mood
Your sleep environment is critical to a good night’s rest. Live with a noisy roommate or several other peers? Investing in some ear plugs — not headphones playing music — and a sleep mask may help provide the quiet, dark environment you need for a good night’s rest.
Still not enough? Try talking with your roommates about how their habits are influencing your sleep — they may not even realize they are keeping you up at night.
5. Reach out for help
Never hesitate to talk about your sleep habits, time management skills and questions with your primary care provider, Student Health Clinic, Counseling and Testing Center or the Health Education Resource Room in the Student Recreation Center.
Emily Tuschhoff is the Vandal Health Ed coordinator.
She can be reached at [email protected]