As a parent, it often can feel as though there aren’t enough hours in the day. Between work and children and household chores and after school activities, it can be virtually impossible to get everything “done,” while still finding time to take care of ourselves (exercise, read for leisure!) and spend time with our partners.
Frequently, after the kids are asleep (finally), we may find ourselves finishing up a report, preparing lunches for the next morning, or sending out those last emails. At the end of it all, we wind up falling asleep, exhausted, only to start the process all over again 6 (or fewer) hours later. Even without addressing tasks late at night, sometimes we stay up just to enjoy quiet, alone time with our partners. As a result, what often gets pushed to the end of our priority list, is one of the most essential activities for our overall health and well-being: sleep.
Sleep deprivation is common for parents of children of all ages. Although we may be aware of the fact that we’re yawning throughout the day or that we definitely need that second cup of coffee in the afternoon, we may not always be as aware of the significant adverse consequences sleep deprivation can have on our mood and cognition. Consistently reducing a night’s sleep from just 8 to 6 hours can lead to an increase in carelessness and negative emotions during the day, decreased working memory, increased risk for vehicular accidents, and a number of health issues, none of which is conducive to the work we do, either inside or outside of the home.
Insufficient sleep can have a strong, negative impact on ourselves and our families.
If you feel you or your child is not getting enough sleep, or you need support managing sleep-related concerns, please contact Georgetown Psychology Associates at (202) 333-6251 to learn more about our services.
