Many people lead busy lives and feel like they don’t have enough time in the day to do everything they need to do. One of the first things to go when we’re short on time is sleep.

But how much is enough? The general consensus is that adults need at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night to function at their best. But what happens if you consistently get less than 6 hours of sleep? Are you risking your health? In short, yes. Let’s take a closer look at why.

What happens when you don’t get enough sleep?

Sleep is important for both physical and mental health. When we don’t get enough sleep, it can have a negative impact on both. Here are just a few of the things that can happen:.

1. Decreased cognitive function

When you’re sleep deprived, your cognitive function is impaired. This means you might have trouble with memory, attention, and decision-making. You might also feel foggy or have trouble concentrating.

2. Increased risk of accidents

When you’re tired, it’s harder to concentrate and react quickly. This can increase your risk of accidents at home, at work, and on the road.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drowsy driving is responsible for an estimated 100,000 crashes each year.

3. Weakened immune system

Sleep is important for a healthy immune system. When you don’t get enough sleep, your immune system might not be able to fight off illnesses as effectively. This can increase your risk of getting sick.

4. Mental health problems

Sleep and mental health are closely linked. Sleep deprivation is associated with a higher risk of depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems. It can also make existing mental health problems worse.

5. Increased risk of chronic diseases

Chronic sleep deprivation has been linked to a higher risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Sleep plays a crucial role in regulating hormones that control appetite and metabolism.

When you don’t get enough sleep, it can throw these hormones out of balance.

How much sleep do you really need?

The amount of sleep you need can vary depending on your age, lifestyle, and health. Most adults need 7-8 hours of sleep per night to function at their best. However, some people might need more or less. Here are the recommended sleep guidelines by age:.

: Age 0-3 months

14-17 hours per day.

: Age 4-11 months

12-15 hours per day.

: Age 1-2 years

11-14 hours per day.

: Age 3-5 years

10-13 hours per day.

: Age 6-12 years

9-12 hours per day.

: Age 13-18 years

8-10 hours per day.

: Age 18-60 years

7-9 hours per day.

: Age 61-64 years

7-8 hours per day.

: Age 65+ years

7-8 hours per day.

How to get enough sleep

Getting enough sleep is important for your health and wellbeing. Here are a few tips to help you get the sleep you need:.

1. Stick to a sleep schedule

Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This will help regulate your body’s internal clock.

2. Create a bedtime ritual

Develop a relaxing bedtime ritual, such as taking a warm bath or reading a book, to help unwind before bed.

3. Limit caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine

Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine in the hours leading up to bedtime, as they can interfere with your sleep.

4. Make your bedroom sleep-friendly

Create a sleep-friendly environment by keeping your bedroom cool and dark, and invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows.

Conclusion

Sleep is crucial for your health and wellbeing. Getting less than 6 hours of sleep per night can increase your risk of a range of health problems, from decreased cognitive function to chronic diseases.

If you’re consistently not getting enough sleep, it’s important to make changes to your lifestyle to prioritize sleep. Talk to your doctor if you’re having trouble sleeping or if you’re concerned about your sleep habits.