Chronic sleep deprivation is the ongoing lack of adequate sleep over time, often due to lifestyle, medical issues, or stress. Those affected struggle to get the recommended 7-9 hours per night, resulting in cumulative sleep loss. Its effects can severely impact physical and mental health, leading to fatigue, cognitive impairment, mood changes, and a weakened immune system. Luckily, there are plenty of things within our control that we can do to promote better sleep.