Course 6 – The Sleep-Loss Epidemic: Understanding & Managing Sleep Disorders
The Sleep-Loss Epidemic:
Understanding & Managing Sleep Disorders
The sleep loss epidemic is a pressing issue in our modern society, affecting people across age groups and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Smartphones and Electronic Devices:
The ubiquitous nature of smartphones and electronic devices has significantly impacted our sleep patterns. Blue light emitted by screens interferes with our natural circadian rhythm, disrupting the production of melatonin—the hormone responsible for regulating sleep. Late-night scrolling through social media and checking emails prevents the regular nocturnal melatonin pulse and dramatically affects sleep.
Social Media and FOMO (Fear of Missing Out):
24-hour social media takes a tremendous toll on our sleep quality. The constant stream of information, notifications, and virtual interactions keeps our brains engaged even when we should be winding down. The “fear of missing out” (FOMO) drives us to stay connected, leading to late-night scrolling sessions. Moreover, social media can evoke emotional responses—both positive and negative—that disrupt our ability to sleep. As a result, sleep deprivation becomes a silent consequence of our digital connectivity.
Work Schedules, Nicotine, and Caffeine:
Demanding work schedules often spill into our personal time, leaving little room for robust and timely deep sleep. Irregular shifts, long hours, and the pressure to meet deadlines contribute to sleep deficits. Additionally, nicotine and caffeine play a significant role. Nicotine is a stimulant that disrupts sleep architecture. Caffeine, the most prolific worldwide stimulant in coffee, tea, and energy drinks, can linger in our system for up to 8 hours, hindering both the melatonin pulse and the ability to maintain sleep. This quest for maximum productivity and alertness inadvertently sabotages our sleep health.
Insufficient sleep has far-reaching mental and physical health consequences. It leads to cardiovascular issues, cognitive impairment, workplace accidents, and mental health challenges. Recognizing the importance of sleep quality and adopting strategies to mitigate these factors—such as limiting screen time before bed, practicing mindfulness, and prioritizing rest—can help address this critical issue.
This course offers 6 – CE credit hours for the following professions:
NURSES, DENTAL PROFESSIONALS, PHARMACISTS, REGISTERED DIETITIANS & DTRs, PSYCHOLOGISTS, MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELORS & ADDICTION COUNSELORS, MARRIAGE & FAMILY THERAPISTS, SOCIAL WORKERS, OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS & OTAs, PHYSICAL THERAPISTS & PTAs, CASE MANAGERS, NURSING HOME ADMINISTRATORS (Distance Learning), MASSAGE THERAPISTS.
