It's tempting to treat sleep as optional, a luxury to be squeezed when work and life get busy. But sleep is one of the pillars of good health, as important as food and exercise.
How much do you need?
Most adults need 7 or more hours of sleep per night. Teenagers and children need more. Individual needs vary, but regularly sleeping less than 6 hours is linked to health problems.
What happens while you sleep
- Your brain consolidates memories and clears out waste.
- Your body repairs tissues and supports the immune system.
- Hormones that regulate appetite and stress are balanced.
What poor sleep can cause
- Trouble concentrating and slower reactions.
- Low mood and irritability.
- Increased appetite and cravings.
- Over time, higher risk of conditions like high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes.
Signs you may not be getting enough
- You need an alarm and still feel groggy.
- You rely on caffeine to get through the afternoon.
- You fall asleep within minutes of lying down, or during the day.
If you snore loudly, stop breathing at night or feel exhausted despite enough hours, speak to your doctor. Sleep disorders like sleep apnoea are common and treatable.
General information only, not medical advice. Always talk to a qualified health professional about your own situation.
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