Student Rest and Sleep

Rest

State in which motor/cognitive response is decreased but awareness of the environment is maintained.

Sleep

Naturally occurring altered state of consciousness characterized by decreased awareness and responsiveness to stimuli.

Functions of Sleep

Includes returning the body to its normal physiological and psychological state, repairing cells, increasing protein synthesis, conserving energy, and improving memory.

Circadian Rhythms

The internal body clock that regulates the 24-hour cycle of biological processes, including sleep.

NREM Sleep

Non-Rapid Eye Movement sleep, consisting of four stages; includes both light and deep sleep stages.

Stage 1 Sleep

Transitional stage between awake and asleep, with relaxed awareness of surroundings and lasts only a few minutes.

Stage 2 Sleep

Actual stage of sleep, totals approximately 50-55% of sleep, with easier arousal conditions.

Stage 3 Sleep

Deepest sleep stage referred to as delta sleep, characterized by significant physiological changes.

REM Sleep

A stage of sleep where dreaming occurs, vital for learning, memory, and emotional equilibrium.

Hypothalamus

Brain region responsible for regulating sleep and controlling the Bulbar Synchronizing Region.

Sleep Apnea

A sleep disorder characterized by the absence of breathing or diminished breathing effort during sleep.

Narcolepsy

A condition characterized by uncontrollable desires to sleep, often accompanied by cataplexy and sleep paralysis.

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)

A condition described by an irresistible urge to move the legs, often accompanied by creeping or crawling sensations.

Sleep Hygiene

Practices designed to promote regular, quality sleep, including minimizing caffeine and creating a comfortable sleep environment.

Dyssomnias

Sleep disorders characterized by insomnia or excessive sleepiness.

Parasomnias

Patterns of waking behavior that occur during sleep, such as sleepwalking and night terrors.

Caffeine

A stimulant that may disrupt sleep quality and pattern.

Serotonin

A neurotransmitter that is released in the brain and aids in sleep regulation.

Sleep Cycle

Refers to the progression through the stages of sleep; typically includes 4-5 cycles per night lasting 90-100 minutes each.

Sleep Deprivation

Decreased amount, consistency, or quality of sleep leading to potential cognitive and physical impairments.

Sleep Diary

A record of food, drink, medications, physical and mental activities, and stressors affecting sleep.

Environmental Factors

Conditions such as noise and discomfort in the sleep environment that can affect sleep quality.

Stimulus Control

A behavioral strategy to improve sleep by associating the bedroom with sleep only.