Sleep Deprivation Is A Worldwide Epidemic - 2077 Words

Sleep deprivation is a worldwide epidemic. The increasingly rapid pace of society and round-the-clock access to technology are two factors that play a central role in sleep deprivation (Centers for Disease Control, 2015). Short-term effects of temporary sleep disturbance are typically limited, associated with only minor physiological consequences. However, long-term sleep deprivation (i.e., more than 24 hours) is associated with many harmful consequences (Meerlo, Mistlberger, Jacobs, Heller, McGinty, 2009). Meerlo et al. (2009) found that sleep disruption leads to reduced neurological functioning, which can have a devastating impact on learning, concentration, and memory. It also increases susceptibility to neurological disorders such as†¦show more content†¦Both groups showed a substantial increase in sleep quality and QOL. Since exercise varied by intensity and type among participants in both groups, the changes were attributed more to the increase in duration than intens ity or form. However, cross-sectional studies are of limited value in determining causality. Laboratory-based studies designed to evaluate the effects of exercise on sleep allow for a more robust assessment of cause and effect. For example, Matsumoto, Saito, Abe, and Furumi (1984) conducted a lab-based single-subject study in which the sleep patterns of participants were measured using electropolygraphs. Six participants of a similar build and fitness level were exposed to vigorous activity on some days and no exercise on others. The researchers monitored sleep latency and duration spent among the different sleep stages. Distinct patterns were clear. Sleep after exercise showed sizable reductions in latency. Duration in both short-wave sleep (responsible for restoration and processing of physiological systems), and REM sleep (responsible for neurological processing) showed notable increases compared to non-exercise sleep. These results indicate that vigorous exercise can improve sleep. Effects of a moderate and sustainable exercise plan on sleep quality are underrepresented in previous research. Behavior modification through a token economy and