Imagine staying up 11 days straight without sleeping watching football. Do you think you can handle it? A 26-year-old Chinese man didn't make it, after 11 days without sleeping he was found dead. (“What are the health risks of sleep deprivation?”) Sleep deprivation is more than just a problem, the side effects of not getting enough sleep can take your life. Most of the facts regarding sleep deprivation are unknown to the general public and thus they put themselves in danger unknowingly. People of all ages should work harder to get more sleep; Sleep deprivation has numerous causes, harmful effects, but many possible solutions. Knowing the causes of sleep deprivation could be considered one of the most important steps in preventing it. One cause may be poor sleep hygiene, such as drinking coffee and smoking before going to bed. Personal choices are also a big cause, people don't realize they need sleep and choose to stay awake doing other activities such as; socialize, watch TV or even read a book. (Better Health Channel) Work, school, and caring for someone who is sick are all examples of obligations that can prevent people from getting the right amount of sleep they need. (American Academy of Sleep Medicine) Finally, medical issues such as colds, medications, sleep apnea, mental illnesses, and more also play a role in sleep deprivation. (Fall Asleep) The effects of sleep deprivation range from mild to severe; for this reason it is important to stop sleep deprivation promptly to avoid serious effects. Effects may vary with age. Adults and adolescents may experience side effects such as constant yawning, drowsiness, and excessive tiredness when first waking up. Children experience side effects like… half the paper… without even realizing it. Making yourself aware of the causes, effects, and solutions of sleep deprivation can give you the step forward you need to avoid it. Considering all this, how will you sleep tonight? Works Cited “Sleep Deprivation.” American Academy of Sleep Medicine. Np, 2008. Web. 25 February 2014. “Sleep Deprivation.” Better healthcare channel. NP, Sept. 30, 2013. Web. Feb. 25, 2014. “Sleep Deprivation.” Fall asleep. Np, 2014. Web. 25 February 2014. “What are the health risks of sleep deprivation?” Huffpost Healthy living. Np, 27 June 2012. Web. 9 March. 2014. .