This year, the 25th International Sleep Day, on March 14, alerts us to the dangers of irrepressible daytime sleepiness. A warning sign not to be underestimated!
When sleepiness becomes pathological
According to the French National Institute of Sleep and Vigilance (INSV), we may not be aware of it, but sleepiness is a serious warning sign. When it occurs in the evening or early afternoon, there's no problem. However, when this irrepressible urge to sleep occurs frequently during the day, it becomes pathological, with—something we too often ignore—serious consequences for our mental health. These include attention deficit disorder, irritability, nervousness, and even depression! Added to this are the risks of everyday accidents and accidents while driving.
Young adults are most affected
According to the OpinionWay survey, more than a quarter of French people suffer from excessive sleepiness, and more than a third of 18-24 year-olds are affected. This includes sleep disorders such as nighttime awakenings due to nightmares and irregular sleep patterns. The main causes? Poor lifestyle, bad daily habits, smoking, the use of energy drinks, and more!
Care, we think about it
There are good habits to adopt for better sleep and better mental health. These include better understanding your sleep needs, exposing yourself to daylight in the morning, regular bedtimes and wake-up times, avoiding screens in the evening, physical activity during the day but not in the evening, reading, listening to soft music, and breathing before going to sleep. However, and the Institute recommends this, in cases of excessive sleepiness accompanied by anxiety, mood swings, or persistent sadness, it is most important to consult a doctor!
During this Sleep Day, to better inform ourselves, meet specialists, sleep centers, and specialized organizations are mobilizing throughout France.
Visit: www.journeedusommeil.org
 Pascale Pommier de Santi
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13/03/2025 | 
