Ah, the semi-annual joy of the clock change—when we all get an extra hour to sleep in or, more likely, just feel groggy at an odd time. But let’s be real: for many Americans, yawning through the day isn’t a twice-a-year ordeal. It’s a lifestyle.

Chronic sleep deprivation, unfortunately, isn’t just about missing a few z’s. Chronic sleep deprivation comes with some heavy consequences, which include a higher risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, infections, and mental health struggles like anxiety and depression. Research shows that sufficient sleep can enhance cognitive function, support overall health, and significantly reduce stress levels. Therefore, prioritizing sleep is crucial for maintaining both mental and physical well-being.

You might think that missing 15 minutes here isn’t so bad, but experts say that it can even add up to sleep deprivation. The CDC suggests that adults get seven to nine hours of sleep each night, but a third of Americans fail to achieve even seven hours. And with our screen-addicted, work-till-you-drop culture, it’s no wonder we’re all a bit bleary-eyed.

Dr. Charlene Gamaldo from Johns Hopkins points out that being “plugged in” doesn’t help either. Blue light, like what you get from computer and telephone screens, messes with our internal clocks, making it harder to wind down.

So, what’s the difference between being just a bit drowsy and full-on sleep-deprived? If you’re merely tired, a solid night’s sleep can fix you up. But chronic sleep loss brings out more severe issues, like memory problems, crankiness, and, yes, nodding off at unfortunate moments (looking at you, drivers).

If you’re not getting enough sleep during the workweek, try catching up on the weekend. And if that doesn’t help, a sleep specialist might need to dig deeper with an EEG.

Sleep priority isn’t just for wellness enthusiasts; it’s essential for survival. So put down your late-night scrolling and let your brain unwind. Dr. Sarah Lou Clever recommends getting ready for sleep with some good books, light stretches, and even a bit of meditation.