Unfortunately, for children adults alike, we are part of a modern society and generation of chronically sleep deprived individuals. Recent studies indicate that as many as 87% of high school students do not get the recommended 8-10 hours of daily sleep. Routine over-programming, high expectations for academic and athletic performance, along with the technological and social pressures consume a disproportionate number of hours daily. The deficit this creates has a negative impact on quality sleep time for all of us.
Failing to get an adequate amount of quality sleep on a regular basis can lead to a long list of significant health problems, including issues with learning and behavior, mental health issues such as memory loss and depression, a higher risk of obesity and behaviors that are likely to foster dependence on medication or recreational drugs. Scientific studies have also shown that there is significant worsening of hypertension, diabetes and emotional disorders with ongoing sleep deprivation.