Vol. 3, Issue 1, Part A (2021)

Sleep is essential for optimal cognitive functioning, especially in young adults who face increasing academic, professional, and social pressures. This paper explores the effects of sleep deprivation on various aspects of cognitive performance, including attention, memory, decision-making, and problem-solving. Drawing from empirical studies and theoretical frameworks, the findings highlight a significant decline in cognitive performance following both acute and chronic sleep deprivation. The paper also discusses neurobiological mechanisms underlying these effects and provides recommendations for sleep hygiene to mitigate cognitive impairment in young adults.