3 More Ways Lack of Sleep Can Make You Sick

4) Bipolar Disorder
A study published in the Proceeding of the National Academy of Sciences identified a gene that when disrupted during sleep led to bipolar disorder in mice. This is due to flawed circadian rhythms in the brain. This interruption in the sleep/wake cycle leads to manic episodes. This is not only due to interrupted sleep but also sleep deprivation in general.

5) Reduced Immune Function
Your body’s immune system is dependent on sufficient sleep. Sleep deprivation, therefore, lowers your immune function and makes it more likely that you will be susceptible to illness and even disease. Many studies show that lack of sleep lowers your overall t-cell count. This also affects how your body fights illness once you are sick. Not only will it be easier to catch a cold or flu or something serious, but you will stay sick longer.

6) Depression

Sleep deprivation often leads to increased anxiety, irritability and depression. You may even begin to lose interest in activities that you once found enjoyable. You become more frustrated and less focused on your job and your goals. If you currently suffer from depression than sleep deprivation will make matters worse. Since sleep is mentally and physically restorative, it is essential for both mental and physical health.

Bottom line, be sure to get seven or eight hours of sleep each night. You might feel like there are not enough hours in the day but in the end losing sleep becomes counter-productive. Your inability to concentrate makes it that much more difficult to focus on the task at hand.

The information supplied in this article is not to be considered as medical advice and is for educational purposes only.