The Sleep Hygiene module combines the theoretical foundations of sleep science with practical skills for managing sleep disorders, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of sleep’s vital role in health. It explores the critical role of sleep in overall health, emphasizing the importance of sleep hygiene and the clinical management of sleep disorders. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of sleep physiology, the factors that influence sleep quality, and the impact of poor sleep on various physiological and mental health outcomes.
Course would holistically address:
Introduction to Sleep-Wake Balance: Overview of sleep physiology, the regulation of circadian rhythms, and the sleep-wake cycle.
Circadian Rhythms: Understanding the internal biological clock and its role in regulating sleep and wakefulness, and how disruptions affect health.
Consequences of Insufficient and Poor-Quality Sleep: Exploration of the physical, mental, and emotional impacts of sleep deprivation, including immune dysfunction, metabolic disorders, cognitive decline, and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
Sleep Disruption Factors: Environmental, lifestyle, and psychological factors contributing to sleep disturbances, such as noise, light exposure, stress, and poor sleep hygiene practices.
Common Sleep Disorders:
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Diagnosis, risk factors, and management strategies.
Insomnia: Causes, consequences, and evidence-based treatment options.
Narcolepsy: Understanding this neurological disorder and its impact on daily functioning.
Sleep Apnea Syndrome: The connection between OSA and comorbid conditions, including cardiovascular and metabolic disorders.
Sleep Deprivation: Acute and chronic sleep deprivation and its effects on health, including increased susceptibility to chronic diseases like hypertension and diabetes.
Impact of Sleep Deprivation on Health Systems:
The role of sleep in immune function, metabolism, cardiopulmonary health, and mental well-being.
The relationship between poor sleep and conditions such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and diabetes.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of sleep health and the role of sleep in overall well-being, including its effects on immune function, metabolism, mental health, and more.
Identify and assess the causes of common sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea, insomnia, and sleep deprivation.
Recommend evidence-based solutions and interventions for improving sleep hygiene, including lifestyle changes, behavioral therapies, and pharmacological treatments where appropriate.
Implement and evaluate strategies to improve sleep quality in both clinical and public health settings.
Teaching and Learning Methods:
Delivery: Onsite (auditorium courses) or remote learning (distance education).
Methods: Lectures, self-directed study, and interactive case studies.
Teaching Organization: Weekly lectures combined with guided readings, group discussions, and practical assignments.
Evaluation: Final written examination assessing knowledge and understanding of sleep health concepts and their practical applications.