HIN Health Action e-Bulletin

It’s National Sleep Awareness Week® 2008*

In today's "24/7" society, many people cut back on sleep to squeeze in more time for work, family obligations, and other activities. But skimping on sleep can be harmful. Like good nutrition and physical activity, adequate sleep is critical for continued good health. In fact, adults should try to sleep 7-8 hours most nights as part of a healthy lifestyle. People who feel that excessive sleepiness is frequently a burden to their daytime activities should discuss their symptoms with a physician. Use the information below during National Sleep Awareness Week® 2008*; March 3 – 9, and the rest of the year too!

Read Your Guide to Healthy Sleep

This helpful and detailed booklet dispels common sleep myths; gives practical tips for getting adequate sleep, coping with jet lag and night shift work, and avoiding dangerous drowsy driving. It covers the stages of sleep, sleep debt, cues for sleep, and changes in sleep patterns over the life span. You will also learn about sleep disorders, such as insomnia, sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, narcolepsy, and some parasomnias.

Check out the section “Is Snoring a Problem” on pages 33-35.

Item #06-5271. You may also preview or download content by following the link above.

Use the Sleep, Sleep Disorders, and Biological Rhythms Curriculum Supplement

Foster interest in research, science, and medicine-related careers for future generations with this curriculum supplement, which brings medical science and basic research discoveries from NIH laboratories into classrooms. The structure enables teachers to effectively facilitate learning and stimulate student interest by applying scientific concepts to real-life scenarios. For use in high school, grades 9 – 12, biology classes. Students explore the scientific process of sleep, the importance of good sleep hygiene, and the negative consequences of sleep deprivation.

http://science.education.nih.gov/supplements/nih3/sleep/default.htm

Visit the Star Sleeper Home Page

Find educational materials for children and their caregivers on the Star Sleeper Web site http://starsleep.nhlbi.nih.gov. Online activities, video, and colorful visuals offer fun opportunities for kids to learn about the importance of sleep and good sleep habits.

Don’t miss fun games like Comic Creator and Sheep Shot at http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/sleep/starslp/missionz/gamepad.htm!