Exams are a period of intense stress, in fact to complete graduation from class 8th there is a period of intense stress due to the number of exams to be given, some students get highly stressed and some well become able to cope. Stay healthy and do well in your academics and career. So what is it that really helps a student reach that potential?
One of the most important factors is sleep. Most of us do not consider sleep as a part of our health. In fact, it comes down on the list of priorities. Most students take pride in not sleeping during exams and burning the midnight oil. A major part of this is created by a false belief system that states that the student should revise the portion of the exam on the previous day or that the student may not be prepared and may be trying to keep up with last minute preparation . Whatever may be the reason, a good night’s sleep is essential not only a day before the exam but also 1 month before the exam.
why sleep is important
The duration of sleep depends on the age of the person, young children require more sleep, but on an average eight-nine hours of sound sleep is required for optimal functioning of the body.
Good sleep stabilizes hormones like blood sugar level, insulin level, cholesterol, leptin, ghrelin and cortisol level of the body. These hormones are essential for the proper functioning of the body.
Lack of sleep suppresses leptin or satiety hormone and activates ghrelin (hunger hormone). As a result of this, the person develops excessive hunger and cravings and consumes more sweet and salty food which leads to weight gain.
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When blood sugar levels are not maintained and insulin levels are increased, the incidence of developing prediabetes or diabetes at a young age is increased, many of which may go undiagnosed.
– Lack of sleep increases the level of cortisol, which causes inflammation in the body, which leads to frequent infections and reduces immunity. Taking exams while ill reduces performance and needs to be avoided
Increased levels of cortisol also interfere with cognition and memory, leading to poor recall, confusion, and forgetfulness. All this together creates anxiety, nervousness and tension in the mind of the student and creates a state of fear.
Therefore, sleep is a very important component of health. Good sleep is the time when cellular regeneration of the body takes place which helps all the organs and systems of the body to work in unison and in the best possible way. It creates a healthy body with a safe mental environment which is vital for growth, development and to face all the challenges of life including exams.
(Dr Paula Goel, consultant paediatrician, adolescent therapist and founder of Faith Clinic)