Sleep deprivation among college students is surprisingly common. Whether cramming all night for exams, partying all night with friends, or simply not sleeping well away from home for the first time, there’s no question that there tends to be a lack of sleep in college student life. Sleep deprivation in college students may seem like a rite of passage to some, but it can lead to serious health and academic issues. People suffering from sleep deprivation tend to work on auto-pilot. Unfortunately, sleep and college students don’t seem to mix, especially in those first few months of college life. Behavioral issues can be solved by making a few simple choices including practicing better study skills (don’t wait until the last minute to cram for an exam!) and limiting the party scene to the weekends.
Make sure you’re not sleeping with dirty pillows. Keep in mind that “dirty” doesn’t necessarily mean that you can visibly see dirt on the fabric. Older pillows harbor mold and other allergens that can negatively impact the quality of sleep you get. An outdated, out-of-shape pillow can also make it hard to get comfortable at night. You might think you’re sleeping through the night, but if you were to see a video of yourself tossing, turning, and fluffing up the pillow all night, you’d probably be surprised.
Sleep deprivation among college students doesn’t have to be the norm. In most cases, it’s up to the college student to take the necessary steps to get more sleep. The first step is to invest in good quality bedding, including things like ambient comfort pillows. Having some new found freedom is enough reason for most people to want to stay up all night. Once the novelty wears off and the reality of college life sets in, it’s time to get serious about a good night’s sleep.
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