Sleep Deprivation

Does sleep deprivation affect suicide rates? Many people believe that not getting enough sleep is a cause for suicidal ideation, especially in teenagers. Several research studies have shown that “those with mental health disorders are even more likely to experience chronic sleep problems and, in turn, these sleep problems are likely to exacerbate psychiatric symptoms and even increase risk for suicide” (Columbia University Medical Center). 

Sleep deprivation can cause you to feel sad or groggy because your body can not function without proper sleep. Sleep also helps regulate your hormones, so when you do not get enough sleep, it will cause a hormone imbalance, which is the cause for most people’s depression and suicidal thoughts. 

Teenagers have a natural shift in their circadian rhythm, which causes difficulty falling asleep before 11 pm. During the school year, teens have to wake up early for school, so they tend to get less than the recommended amount of sleep for many months. “Chronic insomnia, or having difficulty falling or staying asleep for three months or longer, is strongly linked to suicidal thoughts and behaviors” (Henry Ford Health). Due to this cycle of going to bed late and waking up early, teenagers are not capable of regulating their negative emotions and thoughts. 

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https://www.mycg.uscg.mil/News/Article/3894724/its-okay-to-ask-for-help-connect-to-protect/