The Army has a sleep problem. Here’s how to fix it.
By: Maj. Jeff Jager and Aaron Kennedy, November 20, 2016 (Photo Credit: Senior Airman Cliffton Dolezal/Air Force)
Editor's note: The following is an opinion piece. The writers are not employed by Military Times and the views expressed here do not necessarily represent those of Military Times or its editorial staff.
The use of alcohol is known to degrade mental capacity and impair decision-making. The military prohibits its use during duty hours for common-sense reasons, and does the same with other substances that can degrade readiness. But when it comes to other actions that can do similar damage, or worse, we promote them with reverence, pretending they are strengths.
Studies show sleep deprivation offers effects equal to drinking alcohol, and continued lack of sleep has the potential of being even more deadly. We would never allow a drunken soldier to lead an ambush, so why do we consider it acceptable or even admirable to send one with lack of sleep into life-threatening situations?
https://www.armytimes.com/articles/the-army-has-a-sleep-problem-heres-how-to-fix-it
