Sleep deprivation is a disorder often overlooked because it’s so common. It’s a daily part of college life with most students juggling school with work and other activities.
College life is somewhat defined by its chaotic nature. This hectic pace can lead to some health trends that can go unnoticed due to deadlines, work schedules and other priorities that must be met. “Only around 2 percent of people treated for sleeping disorders are college students,” says Jackie Davis, technical director at the Sleep Evaluation Center in Kingsport.
Students try to cram more things in their schedule than they have time for by replacing “unimportant” things like sleep.
Many students have other things that are very important to them that they are not willing to give up. “I am going to work out every day,” says Josh Perkins, a student at ETSU. “No matter where I have to slip it in, it’s something I don’t want to sacrifice.”
Another cause of sleep deprivation stems from the nightlife associated with being a college student. On weekends, when there’s a chance to get some sleep, it is time for some semblance of a social life. “There are many nights on weekends when I don’t get anywhere near the sleep I need to function the next day,” says Micheal Townsend, a business major at ETSU.
Many times people will not realize they are sleep deprived. The warning signs are things that can be easily overlooked. “Sleepiness during the day, while driving, reading or while watching TV can all be signs of sleep deprivation,” Davis says. “Leg jerks during the night and trouble breathing are also common signs.”
With a few simple steps even students can have a solid sleeping regimen that will keep them healthy and still leave them on task, he says.
Seeking the help of professionals is also a viable option. “In certain disorders like sleep apnea treatments are used to maintain open airways for breathing properly,” Davis says. “A CPAP is one of these treatments, it stands for Continuous Positive Air Pressure.”
If not treated properly many sleep disorders can lead to severe health problems, such as heart attacks, stroke and impotence, he says.
Sometimes the problem can be handled with smaller changes in everyday life. “Having a good sleeping environment is another key. If you can keep your “sleep” room uncluttered and quiet it will help when it comes time to sleep. The room needs to be quiet with as little distraction as possible. A light-dimming switch would be helpful if you like to have light when you sleep,” said the sleepnet.com web site.
If you have any questions concerning sleep habits or your health in relation to this subject you can contact The Sleep Evaluation Center in Kingsport at 247-9075.

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