Introduction and module overview

Sleep is often taken for granted, but when it is in short supply or problematic, the knock-on effects can be significant and should be taken seriously. 

Someone who is sleep deprived is not just tired and irritable, but may be suffering a deterioration in both their physical and mental health.

A bad night’s sleep can cause tiredness the next day, but won’t affect health if it is just an occasional occurrence. A few sleepless nights in a row, however, can have much more of an impact, causing difficulty concentrating and making decisions, and may lead to low mood and anxiety about not being able to sleep the next night. There is also the possibility of falling asleep during the day – particularly dangerous for those performing skilled tasks such as operating heavy machinery or driving.