Frequently Asked Questions

Sleep Disorders 101: Sleep Deprivation

Is sleep debt reversable? Can I bank sleep for later?

Answered by:

Michael Breus, Ph.D.

Clinical Psychologist and Author of Beauty Sleep

Yes, you can catch up on sleep and refill that sleep bank over time with quality, restful sleep. But no, you cannot bank sleep for later. Unfortunately it doesn't seem to work that way. If you know you're going to have a night that requires you to forgo some sleep time for a special situation, then a well-planned nap may be the answer.

Dr. Breus is a practicing Ph.D. in clinical psychology with a specialty in clinical sleep disorders. He has a private practice in Scottsdale, Arizona, and is the author of Beauty Sleep. He is a regular contributor to WebMD and America Online. For more on Dr. Breus, visit his website or follow him on Twitter @thesleepdoctor.

Qualified medical professionals are invited to submit additional responses here. Only answers selected by OrganizedWisdom will be published.

Submit an Answer

What is OrganizedWisdom?

OrganizedWisdom.com is the first expert-guided search service for health. Our innovative publishing platform has become the most authoritative way to help people find the best online health information. The site's expert-curated content, called WisdomCards, organizes "The Top 10" online health resources on more than 100,000 health topics. WisdomCards are updated regularly by physicians and expert guides. Click here to visit our most popular health centers and learn more.

close