Student Sleep Health Week

The Role of Sleep in Student Success

Sleep plays a vital role in students' well-being and academic success. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institutes of Health, adequate sleep is fundamental for physical health, mental clarity, and overall quality of life, particularly for young people. During Student Sleep Health Week, the Bureau of Indian Education provides resources and insights into the connection between deep rest and success.

The Role of Sleep in Academic Performance

The CDC emphasizes that sleep is critical for memory consolidation, learning and cognitive function. Students who do not get enough sleep are more likely to struggle with concentration, problem-solving and retaining information. This can negatively impact their academic performance, leading to lower grades and decreased productivity in school.

Leslie L. Crow, a Licensed Professional Counselor and Student Behavioral Health Program Specialist with the Bureau of Indian Education's Behavioral Health and Wellness Program, emphasizes the significant impact sleep has on a student’s academic and athletic performance.

"Healthy sleep habits have a huge impact on mental and physical health in children and adults," Crow said. "Sleep influences our emotions, ability to manage stress and overall wellness."

Physical and Mental Health Implications

Sleep is essential for cognitive function and for physical and mental health. According to the CDC, lack of sleep is linked to a higher risk of obesity, diabetes and other chronic health conditions. For students, this can mean decreased energy levels and increased susceptibility to illness, preventing them from fully participating in school activities.

Crow notes that it is important to recognize how much sleep is recommended for different age ranges.

"Many people do not know that, according to the National Sleep Foundation, teens still need 8 to 10 hours of sleep, while younger school-age children need about 9 to 11 hours within a 24-hour period," Crowe says. "Some significant behavior and mental health issues may be partially or even completely caused by sleep disorders, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity, anxiety, depression and difficulties associated with emotional dysregulation."

To combat these issues, the CDC recommends that students follow a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends, to regulate their internal clocks. Creating a sleep-friendly environment—such as keeping the bedroom dark, quiet and cool—can help improve sleep quality.

Tips for Improving Sleep from Leslie Crow

• Get in and out of bed around the same time every day.
• Stick to a consistent bedtime routine.
• Use your bed only for sleep.
• Go outside for sunshine and activity.
• Avoiding screen time before bed.
• Model healthy sleep habits to your student.
• Contact a medical provider if sleep problems are persistent.

By prioritizing sleep, students can improve their academic performance, enhance their physical and mental health, and set themselves up for long-term success. As we mark Student Sleep Health Week, it's a reminder that a good night's sleep is not just a luxury—it's a necessity.

Resources:

• CDC's Sleep Page: https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/data-research/facts-stats/children-sleep-facts-and-stats.html
• NIH's Sleep Page: https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/sleep