By Lornah N. Kimathi
Insomnia in universities is a growing concern, affecting a significant number of students. The pressures of university life may lead to sleep difficulties.
Some of the students who have indulged themselves in habits like chewing (miraa), using tobacco, as well as abusing alcohol have sited this as being one of the factors that make them lose sleep.
A second-year male student whose identity he preferred be kept private, said he started chewing Miraa when he was in high school as a result of peer pressure. It has become a lifestyle to him, prompting him to chew Miraa on a daily basis when he’s not in school. Sometimes he does it to keep himself awake while studying for his cats and exams.
Bantam Mbaabu another student, said academic pressures are stressful with constant burnouts from deadlines, exams and assignments which inadvertently disrupt his sleep patterns.
Personally, being a person who loves going out with friends to have a good time, has also been affected by this. It has disrupted my sleeping patterns too, spending late nights with friends engaging in extracurricular activities like playing cards, watching movies.
Anxiety, depression and stress are common mental health issues among university students, and they can directly contribute to insomnia. The overwhelming pressure to succeed academically, coupled with personal and financial challenges, can result in sleepless nights. Irregular sleep schedules, excessive use of screens (smartphones, computers), caffeine consumption late in the day, are some of the habits that contribute to poor sleep quality and quantity in students.
Some students may experience physical conditions, such as chronic pain or digestive issues due to sleep deprivation. One’s productivity is likely to depreciate and affecting their academic life. Sleep deprivation leads to poor concentration, memory issues, and decreased cognitive function.
Students may find it harder to focus during lectures, retain information, or perform well on exams. Chronic insomnia can weaken the immune system, making students more susceptible to illnesses. Sleep deprivation is also linked to higher risks of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular issues. Lack of sleep can worsen symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. It may also lead to mood swings, irritability, and a general feeling of burnout.
Sleep-deprived students may struggle with social interactions, leading to isolation or difficulties in maintaining relationships. This can further exacerbate feelings of stress or loneliness.
As a student facing this problem what are some of the remedies one can employ?
Having effective time management can help balance their academic work with leisure activities and sleep. Creating a study schedule, prioritizing tasks and avoiding procrastination can reduce the need for late-night studying.
Practicing mindfulness with activities like meditation and deep breathing exercises can help students relax manage anxiety before bedtime. Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, creating a calm bedtime environment, and limiting screen time before sleep can help students improve their sleep quality. Regular exercise can promote better sleep, as it helps reduce stress and improves overall health. However, intense physical activity close to bedtime should be avoided.
For students experiencing persistent insomnia, it is essential to seek support from mental health professionals, counselors, or sleep specialists to address underlying issues and develop personalized solutions. Hence the university should come up with ways to combat the insomnia and come up with support systems like, offering counseling and mental health services to help students cope with stress, anxiety, and insomnia.
Running sleep hygiene workshops or stress management programs aimed at helping students develop healthier habits and improve sleep.
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