Q: What is sleep deprivation and why is it so difficult to get up for early morning classes?

A: Sleep is extremely important to our physical and mental functioning. Most people need at least six to eight hours of sleep each night to function optimally. When people sleep less than this, their immune system is compromised and they are more likely to get sick. We also are less alert, less able to learn and retain information and make good decisions when sleep deprived. At times we are in "a twilight zone" between sleep and wakefulness. Some people may experience visual hallucinations, illusions or other sensory distortions when they are intensely sleep deprived. They may not remember conversations or activities as they normally would. Our bodies also prefer to sleep at predictable times. For optimal functioning and to avoid illness, it's better to sleep at the same time each night and wake at the same time each day. If you ignore your body's preference for regularity, the sleep cycle can become disturbed. In this case, you might have trouble sleeping at night and then be unable to wake up in the morning for classes.

If self-help strategies aren't sufficient and you struggle with insomnia, you may want to seek professional consultation to determine the cause of your sleep problem. You can set up a consultation appointment at Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) by calling 863-0395 or meet with a clinician at University Health Services by calling 863-0774.

Mary Anne Knapp is a clinical social worker at CAPS.