Inadequate Sleep Decreases Performance

OZARK — Sleep deprivation is common among both children and adults, according to Renette Wardlow, a human development specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

“Recent studies by the U.S. Department of Labor indicate that the vast majority of Americans are not getting enough sleep to maintain optimal health and peak performance,” said Wardlow.

The study shows that missing as little as 1.5 hours of sleep in one night can reduce a person’s job performance by 32 percent the next day. Sleep deprivation can cause these problems; a reduction in performance, greater risk of occupational injury, poor quality of life, and a much higher risk of being in an automobile accident.

Children who do not get enough sleep tend to do poorer in school. They not only get lower grades, they are often cranky and have disciplinary problems.

Wardlow says it is important that adults and children maintain a regular to bed and wake up schedule. An environment conducive to sleeping can help a person fall asleep faster and remain asleep.

“Many things that we think we must accomplish at 10 p.m. could be put off until tomorrow, when we are well rested and ready to tackle projects with more vigor and stamina,” said Wardlow.

Employers, as well as school personnel, prefer a well-rested person to work with during the day. Not enough rest makes for a long day for everyone involved.

“It’s important to remember: ‘sleep well, feel well.’ As for co-workers and schoolmates, a friendly rested person is more fun to be around than a grouch,” said Wardlow.

For more information, contact any of MU Extension’s human development’s specialists in southwest Missouri: Renette Wardlow in Greene County at 417-8818909 or Angie Fletcher in Texas County at 417-9674545.