Understanding Sleep Patterns in University Students During COVID-19
As a speech-language pathologist, understanding the intricate relationship between sleep and mental health is crucial, especially when working with children and young adults. Recent research titled "Sleeping behavior and associated factors during COVID-19 in students at a Hispanic serving institution in the US southwestern border region" provides valuable insights into how the pandemic has affected sleep patterns among university students. This blog aims to explore the findings of this study and provide practical strategies for practitioners to improve sleep outcomes in students.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Sleep Patterns
The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented changes to the lives of university students. The shift to online learning, financial uncertainties, and increased caregiving responsibilities significantly impacted their mental health and sleep patterns. The study conducted at New Mexico State University (NMSU) aimed to assess the correlation of sleep disorders with various factors during the pandemic.
Key Findings from the Study
- Marital status, frequency of feeling sleepy, and changes in diet were significantly correlated with sleep disturbances.
- Students who reported sleeping less were often male, student workers, or those with diagnosed sleep problems.
- Those sleeping more were often students with altered diets or increased sleepiness.
- Disturbed sleep was linked to diagnosed sleep problems, altered diets, and living arrangements.
Practical Strategies for Practitioners
Based on the study's findings, practitioners can implement the following strategies to improve sleep outcomes for students:
- Promote Regular Sleep Schedules: Encourage students to maintain consistent sleep and wake times, even on weekends, to regulate their internal clock.
- Address Dietary Changes: Educate students on the impact of diet on sleep and encourage balanced nutrition to support healthy sleep patterns.
- Manage Sleepiness: Help students identify factors contributing to daytime sleepiness and develop strategies to reduce it, such as regular exercise and stress management techniques.
- Provide Support for Diagnosed Sleep Problems: Collaborate with healthcare providers to ensure students with diagnosed sleep disorders receive appropriate treatment and support.
Encouraging Further Research
The study highlights the importance of understanding the multifaceted nature of sleep disorders among university students. Practitioners are encouraged to conduct further research to explore additional factors influencing sleep patterns and develop targeted interventions.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Sleeping behavior and associated factors during COVID-19 in students at a Hispanic serving institution in the US southwestern border region.
