Warning Signs Of Sleep Deprivation

Moodiness

Patients who experience sleep deprivation for a few nights often display moodiness. They may be irritable and could overreact or become quick-tempered. In addition, they may be more troubled than usual by stressful situations, and they may have a lower threshold for what they define as stressful. Research indicates sleep-deprived individuals tend to report increases in negative moods such as anger, frustration, and sadness. It also shows that these individuals will experience a decrease in positive feelings.

Chronic sleep deprivation, which can occur over weeks, months, or years, elevates an individual's risk of developing clinical depression, anxiety disorders, and other mental health conditions. Patients who experience moodiness after a night or two of insufficient sleep should try to take a nap if possible. They may find that their mood returns to normal once they can catch up on sleep. Individuals who are chronically sleep-deprived may need help from sleep specialists and mental health professionals to improve their sleep quality and treat their anxiety or depression.

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Lack Of Motivation

Lack of motivation is a frequent symptom of chronic sleep deprivation. Individuals may feel overwhelmed by even the simplest tasks at home or work, and they could feel unable to start a task at all. This lack of motivation may progress to chronic procrastination, and patients could have poor work or school performance. Patients may not be able to focus on their goals. In addition, it may even seem impossible to define their goals.

Lack of motivation is often seen in depressed patients. Sleep-deprived individuals who display this symptom or who have depression may also be more likely to engage in risk-taking, dangerous behavior in the long term. They are significantly more likely to experience suicidal thoughts. Individuals who struggle with motivation over a prolonged period may want to keep a journal to document their struggles. It could also help to see a sleep specialist. Motivation may improve with sufficient sleep.

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