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Summer Sleep
By askalice in Ask Alice
June 27, 2011

Dear Readers: Summer is a time to stay up until 4am texting your best friend about this amazing person you found at Schroeder last night, right? No! A few late dances and early morning communications are okay, but the wearing out of your body is not. Sleep deprivation is a serious thing: it can cause memory problems, sadness, a weakening of your immune system and increasing your chances of becoming sick, and an increase in the the ability to feel pain. Also, driving sleepy can seriously effect reaction times, and 1,500 people die each year from sleepy driving. Coffee and energy drinks only give you a shot of caffeine, which may make you feel awake, but your reactions and decision making are still slowed. Teenagers need about 9 hours of sleep per night, so whatever your summer plans are, make sure you schedule enough time to let your brain and body recharge for the next adventure. Lots of Love, Alice

Sleep Deprivation and Driving facts were found on WebMD.com

Original Ask Alice:

Dear Alice: I can’t sleep! I havn’t been able to truly sleep in weeks and I’m so tired. Can you help me? -Sleepless in Victoria Dear Sleepless in Victoria: Your insomnia might be caused by emotional stress or your diet. Caffeine or excess sugar at night can keep you awake. If you like milk, drink some before you go to bed because it has natural sleep enhancers. Also try a sleep sound, such as white noise or ocean waves. Even turning on a fan will help! Exercising during the day can promote sleep too. Once you try these ideas, maybe you can get some much needed sleep. WebMD.com can also give you some ideas about what’s causing your insomnia.