Sleep Quiz

Like caloric intake or exercise, individual sleep needs differ. Average adults need between seven and eight hours of sleep a night - individual needs may range from five to ten hours.

The Epworth Sleepiness Scale (below) was developed by researchers in Australia and is widely used by sleep professionals around the world to measure sleep deprivation. It asks you to look for everyday lifestyle clues to detect how you are affected by sleepiness.

ARE YOU ACCUMULATING A SLEEP DEBT?

Rate your chances of dozing off in the following situations using the rating scale below:

3 -- high chance of dozing off
2 -- moderate chance
1 -- slight chance
0 -- none or stay wide awake

• Sitting or reading _____
• Watching television _____
• Sitting in a public place (like a theater) ____
• Lying down for an afternoon rest _____
• Sitting or talking with someone ____
• Sitting down after a lunch without alcohol ___
• Being driven in a car for more than one hour ___
• Sitting in a car stopped in traffic ___

Score

If your total score is 0-5, you’re probably getting enough rest. If you score is 6-12, you probably have a case of mild sleep deprivation. If you scored 13 or higher, you have chronic sleep deprivation.