Adequate sleep and rest are an essential component of a physical and mental health. On average, research shows that young adults need 7 or more hours of sleep every night.Inadequate sleep can adversely affect health by increasing the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Additionally, irregular sleep cycles (such as staying up until early morning, and sleeping during the day) can cause shifts in hormonal production which can affect metabolism and cause higher incidence of obesity, as well as depressive symptoms.

While insufficient or irregular sleep might be caused by other underlying conditions, some good habits such as consistent bedtimes, making sure your bedroom or sleeping place is dark and quiet and free of electronic devices, and getting sufficient exercise can help improve sleep quality. Additionally, sleeping at regular times at night (in the dark) is important to regularize hormone levels that play a big part in our bodies including metabolism.