Sleep is essential for our health and well-being. It is a period when our body and mind get a well-deserved rest, and our cells regenerate.

Moreover, sleep is necessary for our brains to consolidate memories, learn new information, and repair damaged tissues. Unfortunately, many of us do not get enough sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, adults should aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night. However, some individuals need more, while others can function well on less.

Here are seven signs that you may not be getting enough sleep.

1. You Feel Sleepy During the Day

The most obvious sign that you’re not getting enough sleep is feeling sleepy during the daytime. This can manifest as yawning, feeling fatigued, or even drifting off during activities such as watching TV or working at your desk.

In some cases, excessive sleepiness during the day can be a symptom of a sleep disorder such as sleep apnea.

2. You Have Trouble Concentrating

When we don’t get enough sleep, our cognitive functions can be impaired. This can make it challenging to concentrate, pay attention, and remember things.

If you find yourself struggling to focus at work or school, or you’re forgetting important appointments or deadlines, it could be a sign that you need more sleep.

3. You’re Gaining Weight

Research has shown that people who don’t get enough sleep are more likely to be overweight or obese. One reason for this is that lack of sleep affects the hormones that regulate appetite.

When we’re sleep-deprived, we produce more of the hormone ghrelin, which stimulates hunger, and less of the hormone leptin, which tells us when we’re full. As a result, we may eat more and crave foods that are high in calories and fat.

4. You’re Moody or Irritable

Another effect of sleep deprivation is on our mood. When we don’t get enough sleep, we may feel more stressed, anxious, or depressed. We may also be more irritable or snap at others.

Related Article 10 signs you’re sleep-deprived

This is because lack of sleep affects the levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which regulate mood and emotions.

5. You Have Difficulty Making Decisions

Not getting enough sleep can also impair our decision-making skills. When we’re fatigued, we may find it harder to weigh the pros and cons of a situation, analyze information, or plan ahead.

We may also be more impulsive and make choices without considering the consequences.

6. You’re Getting Sick More Often

Adequate sleep is essential for a strong immune system. When we’re sleep-deprived, our bodies produce fewer antibodies to fight off infections. This means that we’re more susceptible to catching colds, flu, and other illnesses.

Furthermore, lack of sleep can make it harder for our bodies to recover from illness or injury.

7. You’re Having Trouble Sleeping

Finally, if you’re having trouble falling or staying asleep, it could be a sign that you’re not getting enough sleep overall.

Insomnia can take many forms, including difficulty falling asleep, waking up frequently during the night, or waking up too early. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider.

Conclusion

Getting enough sleep is critical for our health and well-being. If you’re experiencing any of the signs mentioned above, it could be a sign that you need to prioritize your sleep more.

Aim to establish consistent sleep habits such as going to bed at the same time each night, limiting caffeine and alcohol, and creating a sleep-conducive environment. If you’re still having trouble sleeping, talk to a healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment.