A study by The Sleep Council has found that 83% of teenagers say their sleep is affected by worry and stress about their exams.
With the approaching exam season in full swing and with many students studying for between 8 and 14 hours a week of intense revision, there is concern that they are not getting enough sleep to function and perform their best.
A good nights sleep
Lisa Artis of The Sleep Council said: “There’s a growing body of evidence that demonstrates how much the sleep we get impacts on how we perform. A good night’s sleep triggers changes in the brain that helps to improve memory, meaning you’ll be much better able to remember what you learnt the day before.”
In the study of over 1000 13-18 year old students 82% said that their bed rather than a desk was their preferred place to study.
Beds are for sleeping in!
Ms Artis said that “We know that a good bed is a comfortable and comforting place to be, but we would rather students sleep in it than study on it! It’s really important to associate the bed with sleeping rather than [studying]. Where possible, try to zone areas of the bedroom so that there is an entertainment zone for play, a work space for studying, and a sleeping area for quiet and rest.”
The Sleep Council with the help of the The Children’s Sleep Charity has produced a Good-Night Guide for Children (leaflet line 0800 018 7923) along with a website giving lots of advice on how to arrange your bedroom: http://www.teen-sleep.org.uk.
Healthy living including managing revision and getting good sleep is close to our hearts here at Luck’s Yard Clinic.
Lots of great advice
If you would like further advice on how to manage exam stress, what to eat to keep you feeling energised and how to manage your revision time take a look at our blogs:
http://www.lucksyardclinic.com/how-to-cope-with-exam-stress/
http://www.lucksyardclinic.com/exam-stress-and-posture/
Wishing you all GOOD LUCK in your exams!
