Several schoolchildren have to wake up and leave home early to avoid peak-hour traffic and reach school on time, making them sleep-deprived. This is taking a toll not just on their physical and mental health, but on their academic performance as well, doctors told Khaleej Times.
“Sleep deprivation can have significant impacts on both the physical and mental health of students, that’s why as a paediatrician, I wanted to raise awareness on improving sleeping habits,” said Dr Sarah Rizk Beshara, specialist paediatrics at Fakeeh University Hospital–Dubai.
She added the minimum recommended amount of sleep is 8 to 9 hours to allow the body and mind to rest and recover.
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Dr Beshara noted some impacts of sleep deprivation include having a weakened immune system “which could lead to making students more susceptible to colds, flu, and other infections”.
It could also lead to impaired growth and development, especially for younger students and teens – as growth hormone is primarily secreted during deep sleep or the stage of sleep you need to feel refreshed when you wake up in the morning.
“Students who are sleep-deprived can also suffer from fatigue and low energy, as sleep deprivation would make it difficult for them to perform daily activities or engage in physical exercise,” added Dr Beshara.
Lack of proper sleep can also lead to increased risk of obesity as it affects hormones that control hunger, leading to increased appetite and potentially weight gain. “Prolonged sleep deprivation has also been linked to increased blood pressure and a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases later in life,” continued Dr Beshara.
When students don’t get enough sleep, “it would be harder for them to focus in class and learn. They may struggle to retain information, thus affecting their academic performance. They are also more likely to feel overwhelmed by academic and social pressures,” Dr Beshara reiterated.
Prioritise adequate sleep
Dr Mazen Abou Chaaban, consultant paediatrician and paediatric nephrologist in the same hospital, noted: “Students who do not get enough sleep come to school feeling exhausted, unable to concentrate, and may be irritable or anxious.”
“This lack of rest negatively impacts their ability to interact with others, understand lessons, and participate in activities like playing. The fatigue they experience can also lead to a lack of interest in school activities, further affecting their academic and social performance,” he added.
Dr Chaaban underscored: “In my view, during the first few months of the school year, it’s particularly important for students to prioritise adequate sleep, maintain a healthy diet, and not be overwhelmed with excessive homework.”
“Getting sufficient sleep is not just about feeling rested; it’s vital for the body’s physiological functions. Many hormones, which are essential for growth and development, are secreted during the night while we sleep. If children go to bed late and wake up early, they miss out on the time needed for these hormones to be released and perform their essential roles in the body,” he added.
Dr Chaaban said another key aspect to consider is reducing the weight of school bags, which can cause muscle pain and contribute to both mental and physical exhaustion.
Another solution both doctors suggest is to have staggered entry for schools so students will not come and leave all at the same time. Not going to school early will give students more time to sleep and they can have more energy in school.
Both doctors also recommend “encouraging proper sleep hygiene, such as regular sleep schedules, limiting screen time before bed, and creating a conducive sleep environment.”
Dr Chaaban underscored: “Taking care of students’ mental health is crucial for enhancing their performance and concentration. We want to ensure that students perform well throughout the school year. Parents, teachers, and school administrators all have a role to play in supporting these efforts. By working together, we can help our students thrive, both academically and personally.”