TALLAHASSEE, FL (#WTXLDigital) - A few more hours of sleep could make the difference between an "A" or a "B." Studies reveal that lack of sleep for college students can result in a lower GPA.
Not getting enough rest is a precursor to failure, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM).
Researchers says that sleep helps the brain stay sharp and focused as well as emotionally fit and balanced. They also recommend adults get eight hours of sleep each night.
"Students are probably not getting enough sleep," said Donna Starke, a nurse practitioner at Florida A&M University. "They really need to prioritize their time."
Going to class groggy can mean losing out on the day's lesson. Eddie Johnson Jr., a psychology student, said he treasures a good night's sleep.
"On a scale of one to 10, I rank the importance of sleep an 11," said Johnson, who has a 3.6 GPA. "When you are sleepy in class, you miss out on the importance of the lecture, as well as test information."
James Crandall, a college sophomore with a 3.0 GPA, believes that students trade their health for popularity.
"Students have a mindset that if they don't attend all of the parties and activities they are not really feeling the college experience," said Crandall.
The classroom is the not the only place where the effects of sleep deprivation can come into play. Driving with less than a few hours of sleep can increase risks for car accidents.
Tenitris McInnis, from the Tallahassee Police Department, says that a sleep-deprived student on the road can be as dangerous as a drunk driver.
McInnis says that "it's your responsibility to be alert behind the wheel."
After two weeks of sleeping six hours or less a night, students perform as poorly as someone who has gone without sleep for 48 hours, according to McInnis.
SleepEducation.com, a patient education website created by the AASM recommends eating only a light snack before bed, taking time to "wind down" before bed by turning off all electronic devices, letting in sunlight to boost alertness, avoiding caffeine at night and keeping a consistent sleep schedule.
The following tips are provided by the AASM to help students get more out of their sleep:
- Don't study, talk on the phone and watch TV while in bed. Only use your bed for sleeping.
- If you take a nap, then keep it brief. Nap for less than an hour and before 3 p.m.
- Never eat a large meal before bedtime. Enjoy a healthy snack or light dessert so you don't go to bed hungry.
