Health Risks Of Sleep Deprivation To Children

While insomnia is commonly thought of as an adult condition, children also experience the detrimental effects of being unable to sleep. Even high schoolers, or perhaps especially high schoolers, suffer from sleep deprivation. This is not a laughing matter, unfortunately. Sleep deprivation can have harmful effects for children of all ages. Here are a few reasons why you should bring your child to the doctor if you think that something is wrong with his or her sleep schedule.

1. Sleep deprivation impairs your child's judgment.

Just like drinking alcohol can impact judgment, so can not getting enough sleep. High schoolers who drive are at higher risk for making bad mistakes on the road when they are exhausted. Not having enough rest can also influence judgment in other ways, causing your child to act out in ways he or she would not otherwise. 

2. Sleep deprivation may lower your child's immune system.

This makes your child more susceptible to health conditions and diseases that could have a long-lasting impact. A healthy immune system requires several hours of rest for correct functioning. In some cases, it could be that your child simply suffers from flu or the common cold more often than he or she once did.

3. Sleep deprivation influences the body's hormones.

Hormones in our bodies control everything from our appetites to how our bodies process sugars. This means that a child who does not get enough sleep could experience an increase in weight gain. Additionally, staying up later often leads to increased snacking. 

4. Mood disorders may be linked to sleep deprivation.

Those who do not receive enough hours of sleep may become increasingly irritable or stressed out. For those already coping with anxiety or depression, the conditions may worsen. If your child is experiencing intense anxiety or depression, you may consider that lack of sleep is a contributing factor.

5. Children who don't get enough sleep often do worse in school.

This may not seem like a health concern immediately, but it is. Psychologically and emotionally, performing poorly in school can lead to self-esteem issues that could follow your child into adulthood.

Next time you think about your child's habit of staying up into the wee hours of the morning, consider these possible health detriments. If your child still has trouble getting to sleep at night, consider making an appointment with a pediatrician to determine how you can address the issue before it becomes serious.