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Effects of Sleep Deprivation
When compared to the recommended 8 hours of sleep every night, sleeping for only 5 hours might have a number of detrimental effects.
1. Impaired Cognitive Function: Not getting enough sleep can make it harder to focus, remember things, make decisions, and solve problems. Performance at work or in the classroom may suffer as a result.
2. Enhanced Risk of Accidents: Lack of sleep can lead to lethargy, sluggish reflexes, and poor judgement, all of which raise the possibility of accidents, especially while operating machinery or a vehicle.
3. Weakened Immune System: People who don't get enough sleep are more prone to infections and diseases because of weakened immune systems.
4. Mood disturbances: Lack of sleep can exacerbate stress, irritability, and mood swings, which can result in mental health problems like melancholy or anxiety.
5. Metabolic Imbalances: Because chronic sleep deprivation alters appetite regulation and causes hormone imbalances, it has been associated with a higher risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other metabolic problems.
My Suggestion
For adults, 7-9 hours of sleep each night is typically advised to maintain optimal health and cognitive performance. Even though each person has different sleep demands, sleeping for fewer than 6 hours a night on a regular basis over time can be harmful to both physical and mental health.