 The Importance of Sleep
Getting the right amount of good quality sleep is important to physical and mental health, and to optimal daily functioning. Not getting enough sleep, or poor sleep due to a sleep disorder, can rob one’s energy, reduce mental sharpness, and increase the risk of accidents while driving, or on the job. Symptoms often attributed to stress, aging, or existing medical illness may in fact be due to sleep problems.
What is a sleep disorder?
More than 80 sleep disorders have been identified. The range of these disorders is varied and wide. It is estimated that 30 million Americans suffer from chronic sleep disorders, while 40 million more suffer from intermittent sleep problems. Those affected have problems ranging from not being able to sleep, to being too sleepy during waking times. Most adults need 7-8 hours of sleep per night to function optimally, though some people will need less, and others more than that amount. When what seems like a sufficient amount of sleep does not result in one being refreshed, or sleepiness remains, a sleep disorder may be present. |
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