How Do Genetics Affect Sleep?

SLEEP AND WHY IT'S IMPORTANT

Sleep is a bodily function that is extremely important in order for our bodies and minds to be able to recharge. This allows us to do work, complete tasks, and be our our best selves, both mentally and physically. However, there are many factors that can lead us to not being able to get the adequate amount of sleep in order to sustain ourselves in the coming days. One of those being genetics, which is a significant role in determining how much sleep we can inherently get.

WHY DO GENETICS AFFECT SLEEP NEGATIVELY?

Researchers have identified specific genes that may trigger the development of sleep problems, and have also demonstrated a genetic link between insomnia and psychiatric disorders such as depression, or physical conditions such as type 2 diabetes. Suppose there is an underlying condition that we are facing, this can show itself during the time when we are trying to sleep. This represents a chain reaction, when we have a genetic issue that was already there, and is showing itself by not allowing us to get an adequate amount of sleep.

GENETICS AND SLEEP IN TEENS

Raging hormones and excessive energy require teens to get more sleep to recharge and make sure that they sustain their energy for school and extracurricular activities. However, if underlying genetic issues exist, this can relate to not being able to sleep on time, staying up late, and affecting our schedules so that they are not able to work to their fullest potential every day. Genetics can play a part in this, for example, if both parents tend to stay up late, the child is more likely to do so as well.