Why Sleep?

Improved Mood – A lack of sleep can increase problems with depression and anxiety.  Our minds are not allowed to reset or rejuvenate if we do not allow for enough sleep.  For many teens, this creates a perpetual cycle, less sleep = more depressed and anxious feelings.  Get more sleep, you may find that you feel happier and less stressed.

Boost your creativity and memorization skills – While your body sleeps, your brain consolidates the memories of what it has learned that day.  If you learn something and then sleep on it, you might just do better on that test.  Try reviewing test information before bedtime a couple nights in a row prior to your test.  After a good night's rest, you should be ready to go.  Because your mind keeps working while you sleep, you might come up with a great idea or new solution to something.  Keep a pen and paper by your bed so you can quickly jot the ideas down when you wake up.

Increase your responses and hand eye coordination – This benefit applies how you do on your sports team, at your job, and even in your driving skills. Studies show that many auto accidents, injuries, and traffic deaths in the U.S. are caused by drivers who are simply tired.  Get more sleep…and besides winning more games, you may save lives.

Productivity – It is hard to be productive when you are feeling tired.  It is hard to stay focused on your homework, your teacher's presentations, and even hobbies that you normally enjoy doing.  Your mind may start wandering, and you are unable to concentrate on the task in front of you.