Not Getting Enough Sleep? Here’s What It Could Mean for Your Health

Sleep is often overlooked in conversations about health, yet experts say it plays a critical role in nearly every system in the body. From mood and mental health to heart health and metabolism, getting enough restorative sleep helps keep many biological processes running smoothly.

To kick off Sleep Awareness Week, we’re taking a closer look at why sleep matters for overall health, and what patients should know about getting the restorative rest their bodies and minds need.

According to Anita Shelgikar, M.D., program director for the sleep medicine fellowship at University of Michigan Health and president of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, sleep is considered a foundational pillar of overall health because it supports a wide range of essential functions.

Sleep helps regulate mood, supports attention and alertness during the day, and plays a role in maintaining healthy cardiometabolic function. When people do not get enough quality sleep, those systems can begin to suffer. Research shows that insufficient sleep is linked to higher rates of depression and anxiety, as well as challenges with blood sugar control and a greater risk of cardiovascular conditions such as high blood pressure, stroke and abnormal heart rhythms.

Sleep also plays an important role in safety and daily functioning. People who are sleep-deprived may have difficulty concentrating or staying alert, which can affect work performance and increase the risk of accidents while driving.

So how much sleep do adults actually need? Shelgikar recommends that adults aim for at least seven hours of sleep per night. However, individual needs can vary. While seven hours is considered the minimum for most adults, some people may feel their best with eight or even nine hours of sleep.

There are several signs that someone may not be getting enough restful sleep. Waking up feeling unrefreshed, experiencing excessive daytime sleepiness or struggling to stay attentive during daily activities may all signal that sleep needs are not being met.

Sleep also has a strong connection to mental health. When people are consistently short on sleep, they may be more likely to experience mood changes, including symptoms of anxiety or depression. In some cases, sleep disorders themselves can contribute to these challenges.

One common myth is that sacrificing sleep can help people be more productive. In reality, Shelgikar says the opposite is true. Being well-rested often improves focus, decision-making, and the ability to engage fully in work and personal relationships.

A simple step people can take to improve sleep is maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day helps regulate the body’s internal clock and supports more restorative sleep.

If someone regularly struggles to fall asleep or stay asleep or feels that their sleep is not restorative, it may be time to speak with a health care professional. Identifying and treating underlying sleep issues can make a meaningful difference in both health and quality of life.