Some believe that 5 hours of sleep is sufficient, possibly due to a lack of awareness about the psychological and physical effects of sleep deprivation. Research on sleep indicates that the body requires at least 7 hours of sleep daily, and Harvard University recommends 7.5 to 9 hours per day.
Medical reports indicate that many patients suffering from anxiety and depression experience sleep deprivation, as a lack of rest affects the balance of neural activity. Harvard studies linking chronic sleep deprivation relate it to obesity, diabetes, and heart diseases, as well as the failure to get enough hours of rest.
Other effects of sleep deprivation include a decrease in: the ability to think clearly, rapid response, and memory formation. These effects reflect on work, study, and even personal relationships.
Physically, fitness and energy also fall victim to insufficient sleep. Cardiac functions and physical endurance are also adversely affected. Reports from the National Sleep Foundation indicate an increased risk of issues with the immune system, nervous system, obesity, and diabetes among individuals suffering from sleep disorders.
It can be said that getting only 5 hours of sleep at night is not enough for the body or mind to recuperate. If you are having trouble sleeping, you might train yourself to take naps, practice yoga, or engage in physical exercises that help regulate body hormones, facilitate drowsiness at night, and reduce caffeine intake.
