Psychiatrists Say Poor Sleep Affects Children's Studies, Health

Psychiatrists at a conference said that online chatting, playing computer games or watching television at night can leave children sleep deprived and adversely affect their studies and physical health.

"Parents should keep a check on their children's TV viewing habits... presence of a television set in the child's bedroom may be a contributor to sleep problems," said Sunil Mittal, psychiatrist and director of Cosmos Institute of Mental Health and Behavioural Sciences (CIMBS).

Sleep Disorders in Children - Overview, Types, Diagnosis, Management
Sleep disorders are problems in sleep that meet diagnostic criteria for a disorder. They include insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, parasomnias and narcolepsy.

The CIMBS and Delhi Psychiatry Centre organised the conference ahead of the International Sleep Day March 15.

"Sleep depreciation could result in a reduced ability to learn and think fast," Mittal added.

According to doctors, the problem is worse in working Indian adults.

Quiz on Sleep Disorder
The comfort of modern life comes at the cost of restful sleep! "Laugh and the world laughs with you, snore and you sleep alone-Anthony Burgess" Scientifically it is proven that a good night's sleep is imperative for maintaining a balance between the physical, emotional and behavioral well-being of a person.

"Surveys have found that almost a third of Indian working professionals sacrifice sleep to fit in personal and work commitments," said Rosely Jacob, clinical osychologist at CIMBS, adding that insomnia could lead to increased risk of automobile accidents and alcohol abuse.

An average adult requires around eight hours of sleep daily but teenagers and children require even more, she said.

Epworth Sleepiness Scale
Measure your daytime sleepiness using this simple interactive tool, based on Epworth Sleepiness disorder Scale. Excessive Daytime Sleepiness is a type of hypersomnia characterized by persistent sleepiness and lack of energy.

Ensuring that bedrooms are conducive to good sleep can be of great help.

"Ensure that your bedroom is dark, comfortable, cool and quiet," said Mitali Srivastava, clinical hypnotherapist.

Lack of Sleep Leads to Weight Gain Within No Time
Researchers are reporting that lack of sleep for even one workweek leads to overeating and weight gain among people.

In addition, avoid late afternoon or evening naps or worrying about future problems or challenges when lying in the bed, Srivastava added. "Stay away from large meals and excessive fluid, especially caffeine," the clinical hypnotherapist suggested.

Source-IANS