Why so many New Jersey adults are running on dangerously little sleep

According to the CDC, a study from the Institute of Medicine says that the average adult needs 7 to 8 hours of sleep and optimally 9 hours of sleep every night.

I chuckled at those numbers since I get about 4 to 4 ½ hours of sleep a night. It turns out I am not alone. According to the CDC, more than 35% of adults get fewer than 7 hours of sleep a night, which is 90 million people in this country. It affects high school children too, with an alarming average of 70% of high schoolers getting fewer than 7 hours of sleep every night. Those are the national averages.

New Jersey is worse than the national average

According to the CDC, over 2.5 million adults aged 20 and over in New Jersey do not get enough sleep. That is 37.5% of the population that has poor sleeping habits. New Jersey ranks 17th in the country as the state with the most sleep deprivation. Hawaii ranks No. 1, which I cannot understand since it is paradise 24/7.

Why aren’t we sleeping more?

Among adults the list is long as to why we have trouble sleeping, shift work and long hours at the job or concerns about job security, salary and cutbacks all affect the lack of sleep. Money issues include debt, unplanned house repairs, retirement funds, stock market hiccups, and other burdens.

Family issues with family dynamics can also cause stress and lack of sleep.

I know for me, when I try to go to sleep, although I am so tired, my mind is like a busy beehive buzzing and my concerns and problems flash in and out like a freaked out 70’s movie. I do not like taking sleep aids, regardless of what the manufacturer says, it makes me sluggish in the morning when I wake up. I have grown to live with a lack of sleep.

The effects of poor sleep habits are serious

Sleep deprivation causes serious health ramifications. According to sleep experts, there is an increase in diabetes, obesity, and depression as well as the higher risk of a decrease in work performance, staying awake while driving and overall decision making.

How do we combat sleep deprivation?

The CDC suggests that exercising, restricting caffeine, going to bed at the same time every night and avoiding large meals and alcohol should help in a night of better sleep.

For me, contrary to CDC, sometimes having a glass of wine or a scotch seems to decompress me and slowly rest my mind. I limit myself to one because too many glasses of alcohol can result in exacerbating the problems that are keeping you awake.

I wish you peace in your sleep and hope you can grab a solid 8 hours.

Need to relax? Scroll down to check out these charming bed & breakfasts in New Jersey

The post above reflects the thoughts and observations of New Jersey 101.5 weekend host Big Joe Henry. Any opinions expressed are Big Joe’s own.

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