Psychological stress and sleep

High school (ages 12+)
Human Body

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/psychological-stress-and-sleep

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the HPA axis activation?Psychological stress activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, leading to cortisol release
2. What does our brain do when we sleep?When we sleep, our brain cleans up waste, remembers things, and repairs cells. It also helps our immune system stay strong.
3. Why does stress make it hard to fall asleep?Stress releases hormones like cortisol that keep us alert. If these hormones stay high at night, they stop us from getting deep, restful sleep.

Psychological Stress: A state of mental or emotional strain or tension resulting from adverse or demanding circumstances.
Circadian Rhythm: The endogenous 24-hour cycle that regulates physiological processes, including the sleep-wake cycle.
HPA Axis: The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, a major neuroendocrine system that regulates stress response and other bodily functions.
Sleep Hygiene: A set of practices and environmental factors that influence sleep quality and duration.