Current Connection 2.1

Current Connection 2.1

In an article entitled "Teens and Sleep,” posted from The National Sleep Foundation, the writer explains about the importance that sleep has in our lives, and how we need to make it a priority.

The author of this article, helping further his argument, tells the reader how sleep can “limit your ability to learn, listen, concentrate, and solve problems….contribute to acne and other skin problems…lead to aggressive and inappropriate behavior… and cause you to eat too much or eat unhealthy foods...” Most teens who aren’t getting enough sleep each night, suffering from these negative effects, are especially having trouble in school and sports. I can relate to these effects. On the nights where I stay up too late, the next day at school I can barely keep my eyes open, much less pay attention to my teacher.

The author, a very intelligent person, goes on to explain that most teens, including me, need to “make sleep a priority.” Most teens need "about 9 1/4 hours of sleep each night to function best." However, they do not get enough sleep each night. That is why so many teens are suffering from not being able to stay awake in class, getting sick from lack of sleep, and not performing to the best of their ability.

The author, stating a fact, says that “when you are sleep deprived, you are as impaired as driving with a blood alcohol content of .08%, which is illegal for drivers in many states.” It was researched that "falling asleep at the wheel cause more than 100,000 car crashes every year." This is a very dangerous and scary thought. Teens need to increase the amount of sleep they get by going to bed earlier and having a consistent sleep schedule. This will overall increase their ability to perform in sports and concentrate in school, and it will also help you be in a more positive mood throughout the day.

I have heard the question asked by teachers many times, "Did you get enough sleep?" Most of the time the answer is no. We definitely need to get more sleep every single night. Sleep is a peaceful cloud that revives the body much like happiness revives the soul. I can't remember the last time I got a full 9 1/4 hours of sleep, and I'm sure many other teens never get a full night of rest either. I strongly believe we need to encourage teens to get more sleep and that will benefit us in numerous different ways.

Skipping sleep can be very harmful, even deadly, if you're behind the wheel, so it is imperative to make sleep a priority.

Works Cited

Unknown. "Teens and Sleep." National Sleep Foundation. 4 Jan. 2013. Web. 9 Oct. 2013.