Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Mental Health of Undergraduate Students of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Anambra State Nigeria

Abstract

The study was carried out to investigate the effects of sleep deprivation on mental health among undergraduate student of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka. Four research questions guided the study. The study employed descriptive survey research design. The population consists of undergraduate student of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka. Accidental sampling technique was used to obtain 100 respondents from the population of 28,718 that formed the study.

The instrument for data collection was 30 items questionnaire titled: Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Mental Health Questionnaire (ESDMHQ) which was validated by three experts in the Faculty of Education, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. Alpha coefficient method was used to determine the reliability of the instrument and the overall reliability coefficient was 0.96. Statistics mean was used to analyze the collected data. The results of the study indicated that frequent use of social media and academic workloads are the major causes of sleep deprivation among undergraduate student of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka.

The study further indicated that depression and poor concentration among undergraduate students are the major effects of sleep deprivation on mental health among undergraduate students of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. The findings of the study further indicate that keeping the bedroom quiet, dark and cool, maintaining regular sleep routine and avoiding the use of electronic devices during bed time are major ways to reduce sleep deprivation among undergraduate students of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.

It was recommended that School authority should organize educational programs such seminars that will emphasize the importance of good sleep hygiene, targeting undergraduate students. Faculties and Departments should join in creating awareness campaigns within the university community highlighting the impact of social media use, academic workload, noisy environments, and other factors on sleep quality. Non-Governmental Organisation should join in student support services in by incorporating strategies to address sleep-related issues.