College Student Sleep Patterns Could Be Detrimental

May 13, 2008

Science Daily/Central Michigan University

A Central Michigan University study has determined that many college students have sleep patterns that could have detrimental effects on their daily performance.

College students are among the most sleep-deprived age group in the U.S. Sleep deprivation can have detrimental effects on daily performance, including academics and driving, and has also been linked to depressed mood and behavioral problems.

A similar study by Forquer and Johnson, published in "Sleep and Hypnosis," found that the use of continuous white noise may help college students get better sleep. The study found that white noise was effective for college students with self-reported sleep problems to decrease difficulty in falling asleep and night wakings.

"These issues are extremely important because not getting enough sleep is associated with impaired attention, school performance, and also can lead to driving accidents as people fall asleep behind the wheel of their car," said Forquer. "Helping students sleep better will hopefully carry over to help them in some of these areas as well."

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/05/080512145824.htm