A WEALTH OF HEALTH A WEALTH OF HEALTH

Healthy sleeping habits for college students

By HANNAH LIFRIERI The Breeze

Sleep deprivation is a rising concern among college students. According to the University of South Florida, more than 70% of college students said they get less than eight hours of sleep a night, 60% said they feel drained or “sluggish” three times out of the week and more than 80% say their lack of sleep impacts their academic success. Out of all academic challenges, many students ranked sleep deprivation along with academic success as the second most difficult, with stress leading at No. 1.

There are two different categories when it comes to college students and sleeping habits. First, you have the “early risers,” and then the “night owls,” JMU health sciences professor Sherri Wilson said. She said that your biological circadian rhythm — the changes in your sleep schedule — affects overall productivity. Those who wake up early tend to have greater levels of productivity and allow their brain more time to adjust for the day and even manage stress, Wilson said.

Those who stay up later in the night tend to have higher levels of productivity, so waking up early could be “counterproductive,” Wilson said. It’s important to keep in mind, whether you’re an early riser or a night owl, getting the right amount of sleep fuels productivity. According to the Centers for Disease Control, it’s recommended to get between 7-9 hours of sleep.

people are expressing themselves outside of the binary.”

When asked about the importance of JMU administering diversity-centered organizations like D.E.E.P. Impact during a time when controversial events regarding gender identity are scheduled on campus, Brunner commended JMU for making “some effort” to validate various marginalized identities.

“It gives social spaces for these communities to come together in times of hardship,” Brunner said, noting the solidarity D.E.E.P. Impact provides to students. “What we’re seeing with the queer community on campus is they are coming together stronger than ever … and I think having organizations like us on campus allows us to facilitate that even further.”

CONTACT Jake Dodohara at dodohajh@dukes.jmu. edu. For more on the culture, arts and lifestyle of the JMU and Harrisonburg communities, follow the culture desk on Twitter and Instagram @Breeze_Culture.

Wilson said evidence shows that sufficient sleep can improve concentration levels, decrease heart diseases and improve mood by alleviating stress and other chronic conditions. Maintaining a sleep schedule can benefit us in countless ways, from physical to mental health, which helps our daily lifestyles.

Students may feel lost when trying to fix their sleep schedule or may not know how to start one. While it’s easier said than done, there are ways to promote a healthy sleep schedule. Wilson said the best way to sleep the recommended number of hours is having a consistent bedtime.

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