In today’s fast-paced world, the choices we make in our leisure time can have a significant impact on our overall well-being. It’s not uncommon to see many men opting for video games and alcohol over getting sufficient sleep. This intriguing phenomenon raises questions about the reasons behind such choices and their potential consequences. In this article, we’ll delve into the various factors contributing to this trend and explore the implications it may have on men’s health and lifestyle.
Reasons why getting enough sleep is vital to men’s health
Getting enough sleep may help prevent cancer. An increased risk of acquiring malignancies like colon, breast, and prostate cancer has been linked to disruptions in the circadian rhythm, the body’s internal clock that regulates when we sleep and wake.
High blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart attack, stroke, obesity, and diabetes are all linked to sleep deprivation and sleep fragmentation, according to a reliable source.
“Those who consistently get less than the recommended amount of healthy sleep can experience reduced cognitive and motor performance and be at risk for several health issues, from cardiovascular disease and diabetes to obesity,” said Shaikh. He also said that people should aim for at least seven hours of sleep per night.
On average, American males die five years before American women, per the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Moreover, they have an increased risk of dying from cancer, cardiovascular disease, and unintentional injuries.
The negative effects of alcohol and video games on sleep
Associate professor of neurology at the University of Washington, Lourdes Del Rosso, Ph.D., has found that both alcohol and video games can make it difficult to fall asleep.
“First, video games can be quite stimulating, causing a state of mental excitation and increasing alertness,” she added, referring to their potential to counterbalance the lethargy that can result from playing them. Therefore, once in bed, they can extend the time it takes to fall asleep.
“Secondly, there can be a sense of ‘losing track of time,’ and video games can be prolonged into the late hours of the night or early hours of the morning,” she added.
DelRosso added that screen time can make it harder to fall asleep since the light from the screen can inhibit melatonin production.
She also mentioned that alcohol might lower muscular tone, making snoring and obstructive sleep apnea more likely. According to reliable sources, sleep apnea is a condition in which the airway closes off during sleep, leading to low blood oxygen levels.
If this condition persists, the following day may be severely exhausted. Negative mental and physical health outcomes, such as depression, diabetes, hypertension, coronary artery disease, and accidents, have all been related to it.
The appeal of video games
Escaping reality in virtual worlds
Video games offer an enticing escape from the challenges and monotony of daily life. The immersive virtual worlds they provide allow men to temporarily step away from their responsibilities and immerse themselves in exciting narratives and challenges.
Sense of achievement and competition
The sense of achievement derived from conquering in-game challenges and the thrill of competition can be addictive. Many men find themselves drawn to games that offer a platform to showcase their skills and compete with others on a global scale.
Social interaction in the digital realm
Online multiplayer games foster social interaction, albeit in a digital environment. Virtual friendships and communities form around shared interests, providing a sense of belonging and camaraderie that can be lacking in the physical world.
The allure of alcohol
Instant gratification and stress relief
Alcohol is often seen as a quick and easily accessible method of unwinding after a long day. It can provide instant relaxation and temporarily alleviate stress, making it an attractive option for men seeking immediate relief.
Social facilitation and peer pressure
Alcohol is a common social lubricant, and many social gatherings revolve around its consumption. Men might feel societal pressure to partake, fearing they’ll miss out on bonding experiences or be perceived as less outgoing if they abstain.
Escaping inhibitors
Some men turn to alcohol to overcome social anxiety or inhibitions. It can provide a way to let loose and be more carefree, allowing them to momentarily escape their insecurities.
Sacrificing rest for leisure
Lack of time management
Busy work schedules and personal commitments often leave little time for relaxation. As a result, men might sacrifice sleep to engage in activities they deem more enjoyable, like gaming or socializing over drinks.
Delayed gratification vs. instant pleasure
Sleep is a long-term investment in one’s health, whereas the allure of immediate gratification from gaming or drinking can overshadow the importance of rest, especially when the consequences of sleep deprivation are not immediately apparent.
Health and lifestyle implications
Physical Health Impact
Lack of sleep and excessive alcohol consumption can take a toll on physical health. Sleep deprivation is linked to obesity, diabetes, and heart conditions. Combining it with alcohol intensifies these risks.
Mental well-being
Insufficient sleep and alcohol-induced mood swings can negatively affect mental well-being. While gaming can provide a temporary escape, neglecting rest and relying on alcohol can worsen anxiety and depression.
Tips for a more restful sleep
Keeping a regular sleep and wake schedule is also highly recommended. He emphasized the significance of this by noting that our biological clocks function best when they are kept on a routine.
Guarana suggests a cool room temperature for sleep as well. During sleep, it’s important for the body’s temperature to drop by roughly two degrees Fahrenheit.
Assistant Professor of Management and Entrepreneurship at Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business, Cristiano Guarana, PhD, recommends avoiding both alcohol and caffeine in the hours leading up to bedtime. Both can make it difficult to get to sleep or stay asleep.
To help melatonin regulate our sleep schedules, Guarana recommended avoiding blue light from devices for at least one hour prior to bedtime. We live in a society where access to light is severely limited. Darkness is necessary for sleep.
Last but not least, Guarana advised that if you’re having trouble sleeping, you should get up and stay awake until you feel sleepy.
Having your brain associate your bed with being awake, he said, can make falling asleep more challenging. He advised that, in the future, whenever fatigue strikes, the individual should go back to bed.
In an age of digital distractions and instant gratification, many men find themselves drawn to video games and alcohol as ways to unwind and socialize. However, it’s crucial to recognize the potential health and lifestyle consequences of these choices. By valuing sleep, practicing moderation, and seeking healthier avenues for relaxation, men can strike a harmonious balance between leisure and well-being.