Senators John McCain and Barack Obama are in the midst of a grueling campaign to win election as the 44th president of the United States. A nonstop schedule of personal appearances across the country can leave candidates with little time to sleep.
As a result, sleep deprivation becomes another opponent against which each candidate must contend. The effects of sleep deprivation can have a severe impact on a candidate’s performance during the campaign, affecting how he or she feels, thinks and acts.
Here are seven signs that a presidential candidate may be sleep deprived:
- Nodding off when sitting still
Daytime sleepiness is the primary effect of sleep deprivation. The pressure to sleep can become overwhelming, especially when a candidate has to sit still during a quiet or monotonous situation.
- Stumbling to find the right words
Sleep deprivation can slow down your ability to concentrate, making it harder to think clearly. A candidate may struggle to give a quick answer to a tough question.
- Making mistakes
Sleep deprivation can make you more easily distracted, causing you to lose focus. A candidate may fail to detect and correct errors.
- Being forgetful
Sleep deprivation hinders short-term memory. A candidate may struggle to remember important information.
- Acting irritable
Sleep deprivation can make you anxious and more easily frustrated. A candidate may become overly critical or may display uncharacteristic anger.
- Becoming pessimistic
Sleep deprivation can have a severe effect on your mood. A candidate may become unmotivated or even depressed when polls or vote totals are unfavorable.
- Getting sick
Sleep deprivation hinders the defense response of your immune system. A candidate may become more susceptible to a cold or flu.
Reviewed by Rose Franco, MD, and David Kuhlmann, MD
Updated August 11, 2008
