Date of Award

2023

Document Type

Restricted Access Thesis

Degree Name

MS in Physician Assistant Studies (PA)

Department

Physician Assistant Studies

First Advisor

Ryane Lester, PA-C

Abstract

Background: Today’s fast-moving world with immense expectations from our job, family, finances, and relationships, stress has become almost inevitable. Stress can affect various aspects of daily life such as sleep quality. Sleep quality, characterized by sleep latency, efficiency, duration, and wake after sleep onset is influenced by many elements including environment, psychological, and physiological factors. Large levels of stress can lead to trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, increased interruptions, and shorter sleep durations. In result, poor sleep can lead to increased risk of many health factors including decreased immune function, cardiovascular diseases, and cognitive impairment.1 Grasping how sleep quality is affected by stress is necessary for encouraging healthy habits to decrease risks correlated with poor sleep. Purpose: To research the influence of stress on sleep quality and duration in adults. The study investigates adults undergoing high levels of stress and their sleep quality and duration, making note of the significance of restful sleep for overall health and well-being. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using various databases to collect information. Also, a nine-question survey was conducted and completed by 25 current Physician Assistant students to analyze their sleep quality and duration and how stress impacts their sleep patterns. Inclusion criteria were studies that included effects of stress on sleep quality and duration, articles published after 2018, articles analyzing stressed adults. Conclusions: Stress negatively impacts sleep quality and increases the risk of several health issues, highlighting the need for interventions on managing stress. Furthermore, the bidirectional relationship between stress and sleep quality brings to light the importance of improving sleep habits to enhance mental health outcomes. Performing stress management techniques, improving sleep environment, and regular sleep schedules can improve sleep quality and overall well-being.

Identifier

SC 11.PAS.2023.Ekstein.Z

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