What are the effects of sleep loss?

We all know it's important to get enough sleep. But we may not realize just how critical good sleep really is. Sleep loss can affect your health, your functioning, and even your safety. So, if you have any questions about your own sleep, be sure to talk to your doctor. Get help and get enough sleep.

Sleep Loss and Health
Sleep loss may be associated with significant health problems, such as:

Depression. Several studies have shown that sleep loss isn't just a result of mental health problems; it can be a significant risk for the development of depression.
Headaches. Headaches can interfere with sleep, but sleep loss can also provoke headaches.
Impaired heart functioning. People with disrupted sleep schedules, such as shift workers, may be more prone to cardiovascular problems.

Sleep Loss and Functioning
Sleep loss can impair our functioning in many ways. It can affect us at:

Work. People with sleep loss reported poor concentration, lower productivity, and poorer work quality. It has been estimated that lost productivity at work due to sleepiness at work may cost the economy as much as $100 billion annually.
School. Sleep loss can interfere with memory, logical reasoning, and concentration.
Home. By making us fatigued, irritable, or forgetful, sleep loss can lead to stress and strained relationships.

Sleep Loss and Safety
Sleep loss isn't just distressing—it's dangerous. Think about this:

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 100,000 auto crashes annually may be fatigue-related.
More than 50% of Americans surveyed reported driving while drowsy, and 17% had actually dozed off at the wheel.
Excessive sleepiness has been linked to major catastrophes such as the Three Mile Island meltdown, the Challenger launch disaster, and the grounding of the Exxon Valdez.