The Dangers of Insufficient Sleep

The Dangers of Insufficient Sleep

Understanding Sleep Deprivation Disorder

As summer approaches, many people find it challenging to get a good night’s sleep. Research indicates that sleep tends to decrease during the summer months due to factors like longer daylight hours, higher temperatures, and changes in daily routines.

Sleep is vital for our overall health and well-being. Failing to get at least seven hours of quality sleep regularly can have serious consequences on both physical and mental health.

Sleep deprivation can result in daytime drowsiness, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, and slower cognitive functions. Over time, chronic lack of sleep can contribute to serious health problems such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, weakened immune system, chronic pain, and mental health disorders.


Prioritizing sufficient sleep each night is essential for the optimal functioning of our body’s systems. By making sleep a priority and adopting healthy sleep habits, we can mitigate the risks associated with sleep deprivation and enhance our overall health and well-being.

Dr. Andrew Valenzuela, a Sleep Specialist at Banner Health, underscores the importance of adequate sleep for a healthy lifestyle. “Sleep is crucial for overall health and well-being. Chronic sleep deprivation can cause or exacerbate existing health issues, including obesity, heart disease, and cognitive impairment,” says Dr. Valenzuela.

To address sleep disturbances during the summer, Dr. Valenzuela offers the following tips:

– Maintain a consistent sleep schedule.

– Create a cool and comfortable sleeping environment.

– Use your bed only for sleeping to avoid unhealthy bedtime associations.

– Limit screen time before bed, as blue light from screens can disrupt melatonin production, a hormone that regulates sleep.

If you are experiencing symptoms of sleep deprivation or struggling to achieve the recommended amount of sleep each night, contact your nearest Banner Sleep Center for a sleep consultation.