We have all heard the statement, young adults and teens should get seven to nine hours of sleep every night, but why are so many precious hours advised to be spent on sleep? Sleep improves mood, physical health and promotes the immune system.  

Sleep promotes brain growth and improves your mood. As you go through the day you become increasingly tired, due to the production of melatonin. Once you sleep you use this special chemical, as well as create a feel-good chemical, dopamine. This means that the longer you go without sleep, the worse your mood gets and the worse you act around other people.

The physical health of the human body is also improved, as sleep decreases your level of heart attack, cardiovascular issues, and stroke. Your body also requires more energy if you do not sleep, meaning you gain more glucose through sugars and food. The more you eat the more weight you gain and the less energy you use to exercise and be active.

Finally, your immune system is improved through sleep. If you have ever been sick, you know the exhaustion that comes from this experience. The body naturally fights diseases better when asleep and can help to permanently defeat viruses.

All of these factors, mood, health, and immune system provide great reasons for one to get more sleep. Even through the stress of school and work, make sure to get one’s sleep as the benefits greatly will improve your life.