Falling asleep at the wheel is a significant danger caused by a lack of sleep. A 1999 survey done by the National Sleep Foundation found that 62 percent of drivers have reported feeling drowsy while driving in the past year and 27 percent of adults have dozed off at the wheel. In addition, sleep deprivation can negatively affect productivity. Studies show that sleep deprivation can result in reduced efficiency at the office and home. Sleepy people find it more difficult to concentrate.
Studies also show that high school students who get more sleep have higher grade point averages.
We should all learn more about our sleep patterns and how to obtain the best quality sleep possible. After all, we sleep almost one-third of our lives. Special thanks go to author Deborah Rice Nichols, N-Idaho. Read more about Deborah and her profession in the Career Corner found in this issue.