Several schoolchildren are forced to wake up early and leave home before peak-hour traffic to ensure they reach school on time, leading to sleep deprivation. This issue is not only affecting their physical and mental health but also their academic performance, according to doctors who spoke to Khaleej Times.
“Sleep deprivation can significantly impact both the physical and mental health of students, which is why, as a pediatrician, I am keen to raise awareness about improving sleeping habits,” said Dr. Sarah Rizk Beshara, a specialist in pediatrics at Fakeeh University Hospital–Dubai. She emphasized that the minimum recommended amount of sleep is 8 to 9 hours to allow the body and mind to rest and recover.
Dr. Beshara highlighted that sleep deprivation can weaken the immune system, making students more susceptible to colds, flu, and other infections. It can also impair growth and development, particularly in younger students and teens, as growth hormone is primarily secreted during deep sleep.
“Students who are sleep-deprived often suffer from fatigue and low energy, making it difficult for them to perform daily activities or engage in physical exercise,” Dr. Beshara added. Lack of proper sleep can also increase the risk of obesity by affecting hunger-controlling hormones, leading to increased appetite and potentially weight gain. “Prolonged sleep deprivation has also been linked to increased blood pressure and a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases later in life,” she continued.
When students don’t get enough sleep, “it becomes harder for them to focus in class and learn. They may struggle to retain information, thus affecting their academic performance. They are also more likely to feel overwhelmed by academic and social pressures,” Dr. Beshara reiterated.
Dr. Mazen Abou Chaaban, a consultant pediatrician and pediatric nephrologist at the same hospital, noted: “Students who do not get enough sleep come to school feeling exhausted, unable to concentrate, and may be irritable or anxious.” He added that this lack of rest negatively impacts their ability to interact with others, understand lessons, and participate in activities like playing. The fatigue they experience can also lead to a lack of interest in school activities, further affecting their academic and social performance.
Dr. Chaaban emphasized: “During the first few months of the school year, it's particularly important for students to prioritize adequate sleep, maintain a healthy diet, and not be overwhelmed with excessive homework.” He explained that getting sufficient sleep is crucial for the body's physiological functions, as many hormones essential for growth and development are secreted during the night. If children go to bed late and wake up early, they miss out on the time needed for these hormones to be released and perform their essential roles in the body.
Dr. Chaaban also mentioned the importance of reducing the weight of school bags, which can cause muscle pain and contribute to both mental and physical exhaustion. Both doctors suggest implementing staggered entry for schools to avoid all students arriving and leaving at the same time, giving students more time to sleep and more energy in school.
They also recommend “encouraging proper sleep hygiene, such as regular sleep schedules, limiting screen time before bed, and creating a conducive sleep environment.” Dr. Chaaban underscored: “Taking care of students' mental health is crucial for enhancing their performance and concentration. We want to ensure that students perform well throughout the school year. Parents, teachers, and school administrators all have a role to play in supporting these efforts. By working together, we can help our students thrive, both academically and personally.”
