ANCSLEEP BLOG

Sleep deprivation is often treated as an inconvenience—something to power through with coffee and determination. But when sleep loss becomes chronic, its effects extend far beyond fatigue. One of the most significant and underrecognized consequences of insufficient sleep is its powerful influence on addictive behaviors.

From substance use to compulsive habits like overeating, gambling, or excessive screen use, sleep deprivation alters the brain in ways that increase vulnerability to addiction, relapse, and loss of impulse control.

Sleep is a cornerstone of health and development, especially for school-aged children. Yet, with early school start times, extracurricular activities, and increasing screen time, many children and teenagers aren’t getting the sleep they need. The consequences go beyond tiredness—lack of sleep significantly affects behavior, emotional regulation, and academic performance in school. Let’s explore how sleep influences school behavior and what parents and educators can do to help.