Lack of Sleep = Insipid GPA

Studies reveal more college students are losing sleep due to increased partying and poor diets, which can result in a lower GPA. Not getting enough rest is a precursor to failure, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

Many Florida A&M students suffer the daily consequences of sleep deprivation.

Sleep helps the brain stay sharp and focused as well as emotionally fit and balanced. Researchers recommend adults get eight hours of sleep each night.

“FAMU students are probably not getting enough sleep,” said Donna Starke, a FAMU nurse practitioner. “They really need to prioritize their time.”

Going to class groggy can mean losing out on the day’s lesson. Psychology student Eddie Johnson Jr. said he treasures a good night’s sleep.

“On a scale of one to 10, I rank the importance of sleep an 11,” said Johnson, a junior with a 3.6 GPA. “When you are sleepy in class, you miss out on the importance of the lecture, as well as test information.”

James Crandall, a sophomore with a 3.0 GPA, believes that students trade their health for popularity.

“Students have a mindset that if they don’t attend all of the parties and activities they are not really feeling the ‘FAMU experience,'” said Crandall.

More than killing grades, losing sleep can result in accidents and even death, especially when driving.

Tallahassee Police Department Officer Tenitris McInnis notes that a sleep-deprived student on the road can be as dangerous as a drunk driver.

“It’s your responsibility to be alert behind the wheel,” said McInnis.

After two weeks of sleeping six hours or less a night, students perform as poorly as someone who has gone without sleep for 48 hours, added McInnis.

SleepEducation.com, a patient education website created by the AASM recommends eating only a light snack before bed, taking time to “wind down” before bed by turning off all electronic devices, letting in sunlight to boost alertness, avoiding caffeine at night and keeping a consistent

sleep schedule.

AASM is a professional membership organization dedicated to the advancement of sleep medicine and sleep-related research.

The following tips are provided by the AASM to help students get more out of their sleep:

1. Don’t study, talk on the phone and watch TV while in bed. Only use your bed for sleeping.

2. If you take a nap, then keep it brief. Nap for less than an hour and before 3 p.m.

3. Never eat a large meal before bedtime. Enjoy a healthy snack or light desert so you don’t go to bed hungry.

For more information, visit www. sleepeducation.com.