There are various consequences when one is sleep deprived. In the short term, insomnia leads to daytime drowsiness, impaired concentration, aggravation of chronic physical ailments etc. Prolonged poor sleep leads to reduced performance, increased risk for accidents and death, and detrimental effects on both psychological and physical health, such as heart problems, weight gain and increased risk for stroke.

Good quality sleep has two important aspects: duration and depth. 

When there is not enough total sleep time, or there are multiple awakenings during the night, then sleep is considered insufficient.

There is a difference between insomnia (especially when it is chronic) and sleep deprivation, which could be situational (e.g. with a newborn baby at home) or voluntarily (excessive gaming or time in front of the TV). People with sleep deprivation would usually fall asleep easily when given opportunity to sleep, whereas insomnia-sufferers may find it difficult to fall or stay asleep, even though they may feel tired or drowsy during the day.

Importance of regular sleep

Ideally, one should have a regular sleep routine – i.e. go to bed and get out of bed at roughly the same time every day. This is important for general health and daily performance. Unfortunately, life does not always allow for this, but then catching up during weekends or on non-working days is still beneficial.