Sleep deprivation is emerging as a serious public health concern, with far-reaching consequences on brain function and mental well-being, says Dr. Siddharth Kuriyal, Assistant Professor at the University Institute of Allied Health Sciences, Chandigarh University.
In his recent insights titled “Awake but Impaired: The Silent Neurocognitive Crisis of Sleep Deprivation,” Dr. Kuriyal emphasizes that sleep is not merely a period of rest but an essential neurobiological process. “Sleep is the golden chain that ties health and our bodies together. However, in today’s fast-paced world, this chain is gradually weakening,” he noted.
According to Dr. Kuriyal, even mild sleep deprivation can significantly impact cognitive performance. During deep sleep, the brain undergoes repair and detoxification through the glymphatic system, which clears harmful metabolic waste such as beta-amyloid proteins. “When sleep is disrupted, this process is compromised, leading to reduced attention span, impaired decision-making, and mental fatigue,” he explained.
The expert further highlighted that chronic sleep deprivation disturbs hormonal and neurotransmitter balance. Elevated cortisol levels, often associated with stress and lack of sleep, negatively affect the hippocampus—the brain region responsible for learning and memory. At the same time, reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex weakens executive functions, including judgment and impulse control.
“This is why sleep-deprived individuals often experience irritability, poor concentration, and emotional instability,” Dr. Kuriyal added, warning that prolonged sleep loss could contribute to long-term neurological issues.
Modern lifestyle factors such as excessive screen time, academic pressure, and irregular routines are further aggravating the problem, particularly among young adults. What is often dismissed as simple fatigue may, in fact, be an early sign of cognitive decline.
Dr. Kuriyal cautioned that persistent sleep deprivation has been linked to serious conditions, including depression and neurodegenerative disorders such as dementia. He stressed the importance of maintaining good sleep hygiene, including consistent sleep schedules, limited screen exposure before bedtime, and effective stress management.
“Sleep is not a luxury but a biological necessity. Protecting sleep is essential to protecting the mind,” he concluded.
