Sleep, we all need it, we all do it, and with summer ending, some might be having a hard time readjusting to a new sleep cycle. For those who spent their summer nights being active and up you might be having difficulty going to bed early. Those who prefer to stay up, this is for you. 

With the third week of school coming to an end, it’s important to make sure you’re getting at least seven hours of sleep. That means no more late nights on your cellphone or binge watching tv shows. 

As we all know, sleep is vital because while you sleep your body is working to help you function better physically, mentally, emotionally, and metabolically. It also plays a role in how it affects our attention span and behavior. With a good night’s sleep you’re more energized, focused, and refreshed. It’s the complete opposite if you lack sleep. A lack of sleep means that you’ll feel fidgety, impulsive, distracted, unable to concentrate, and have difficulty learning new concepts. 

According to the Department of Neurology at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons and The Neurological, the effects of sleep deprivation include a few symptoms such as fatigue, forgetfulness, irritability, depressed mood, “fuzzy head”, lack of motivation, and even hallucinations. The physical effects include: prevention of the body from strengthening the immune system and producing more cytokines to fight infection, increased risk of new and advanced respiratory diseases, release of insulin, affected body weight, increased risk of cardiovascular disease, and affect hormone production. 

These effects can cause both mental and physical harm, not just your grades. So, it’s very important that not just students, but everyone stick to a sleeping schedule to avoid the drawbacks that come with not getting enough sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation a few tricks that will help get a better rest is waking up and going to bed at the same time everyday, exercising during the day, limiting yourself from caffeine and nicotine, and avoiding eating excessively before bed. 

As important as education is, your health means more and getting enough sleep is key to staying physically and mentally healthy. Doing these things will help you to maintain and continue being successful because a healthy mind and body is key to being the best you.