How can poor sleep hygiene impact your university studies?

Often, the university lifestyle isn’t one that supports a good night’s rest, with after hours studying and partying nearly always on the agenda. In fact, research shows that 19% of students sleep less than five hours per night. However, sleep is an essential yet often overlooked component of success in university studies, affecting everything from academic performance to mental health.

As someone who is studying to be a teacher, it’s even more important that you’re clued up on sleep hygiene best practices. Not only to aid your own studies, but also so that you model positive behaviours to your students (and other teachers) as you enter your placements.

In this article, we explore exactly how inadequate sleep affects various aspects of academic life.

Cognitive function and memory

Lack of sleep significantly impairs cognitive functions such as attention, concentration, and problem-solving skills. If you don’t get enough sleep, you’ll struggle to focus during lectures and while studying, which can negatively affect your ability to absorb and retain information. Memory consolidation, a process that occurs during sleep, is crucial for learning; without it, you may find it difficult to remember key concepts and details.

Emotional wellbeing

Sleep deprivation has a profound impact on emotional regulation. Students who do not get adequate sleep are more likely to experience anxiety, stress, and depression. These emotional states can create a vicious cycle, further disrupting sleep and compounding academic difficulties.

Teaching is often a high-pressure profession, and as such, it’s important that you prioritise your mental health right from the start of your career. You won’t be at your best in the classroom if you’re already feeling irritable, and it could even impact how you interact with children and other teachers.

Physical health

Poor sleep hygiene is linked to a variety of physical health issues, including weakened immune function, weight gain, and increased susceptibility to illness. Students who frequently fall ill, miss classes and fall behind on assignments. This can create additional stress and pressure. Chronic sleep deprivation can also lead to more severe health problems, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes, which can have long-term consequences.

Academic performance

Ultimately, the cumulative effects of poor sleep hygiene manifest in diminished academic performance. If you don’t prioritise sleep, you’re more likely to struggle to keep up with the demands of your degree, potentially impacting your dreams of becoming an educator. Lack of sleep will also affect your motivation and energy levels, making it difficult to engage actively in your studies and extracurricular activities.

Balancing your priorities

Most people who study teaching at university have a vocation – they want to succeed and have a great career in the classroom. But whilst there’s always a balance between enjoying the social benefits of university and your studies, don’t let things get out of hand.

Try and create a schedule that gives you time to do the socialising you want, but also accounts for some solid study time. Then, get into a positive nighttime routine that allows you to get as much quality sleep as possible once your head hits the pillow. With this balance, you’ll be sure to get the most out of your time at university.

The author

Harriet Young

Harriet enjoys going on hikes and connecting with nature with her two Labradors. Though she enjoys being vegan, she is adventurous and enjoys trying out new food. Skilled in PR, creative media, and content strategies to assist brands and companies in developing and enhancing their online presence. Primary competency: - Market and audience insight - Campaign planning and strategy - Digital initiatives that result in 'earned' media attention that is organic. https://www.thesixthdegree.media