Lack of sleep exacts a toll on perception and judgment. In the workplace, its effects can be seen in reduced efficiency and productivity, errors, and accidents. Sometimes the effects can even be deadly, as in the case of drowsy driving fatalities. http://healthysleep.med.harvard.edu/healthy/matters/consequences
Some causes of sleep deprivation are: Voluntary behavior: Some people choose to stay awake to socialize or to enjoy hobbies. The use of stimulants can also have an impact on sleep. For example, some people may consume alcohol or caffeine close to bedtime, which can increase the difficulty to fall asleep. Other causes are: work or study commitments, environment and sleeping habits, insomnia, sleep apnea and short-term illness.
Some suggestions for obtaining sufficient sleep through good sleep habits include:
- Going to bed when tired
- Following a routine for bed and wake-up times, keeping it consistent every day of the week
- Avoiding eating 2-3 hours before bedtime
- If unable to fall asleep after 20 minutes of trying, going to another room and trying to read until feeling sleepy, then returning to bed
- Engaging in regular exercise during the day
- Keeping the bedroom quiet, dark and a comfortably cool temperature
- Turning off electronic devices when you go to bed.
The only way to erase a sleep debt is to get more sleep on a regular basis. Depending on how great the sleep debt is, it will take some time to fully recover. But positive effects will be felt rather quickly. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/307334.php?page=2