sleep deprivation

  Sleep deprivation Sleep deprivation, also known as sleep insufficiency or sleepliness, is the condition of not having adequate duration and/or quality of  sleep  to support decent alertness, performance, and health. It can be either  chronic  or  acute  and may vary widely in severity. Acute sleep deprivation is when an individual sleeps less than usual or does not sleep at all for a short period of time – usually lasting one to two days. Chronic sleep deprivation means when an individual routinely sleeps less than an optimal amount for ideal functioning. Chronic sleep deficiency is often confused with the term  insomnia . Although both chronic sleep deficiency and insomnia share decreased quantity and/or quality of sleep as well as impaired function, their difference lies on the ability to fall asleep. Sleep deprived individuals are able to fall asleep rapidly when allowed but those suffering from insomnia have difficulty falling...