School fatigue: its causes, treatment, and tips for increasing concentration
Dr. Nasr Al-Din Al-Sharif, a pediatric consultant, confirmed in special statements to Al-Youm newspaper that the phenomenon of school students feeling lazy and lethargic during the school day has gone beyond being just a passing feeling of boredom, to become a health and behavioral indicator that requires attention and serious treatment, given its direct effects on the educational and health future of the children.
General context and lifestyle changes
The phenomenon of school inactivity cannot be separated from the radical transformations that modern lifestyles have undergone in recent years. With rapid technological advancements, physical activity levels among children and adolescents have declined significantly compared to previous decades. Active play in playgrounds has been replaced by electronic games and smart screens, creating a generation inclined to be sedentary and sit for extended periods, paving the way for health problems that extend beyond inactivity to include obesity and muscle weakness.
Causes of lethargy: between dietary habits and sleep disorders
Dr. Al-Sharif explained that the causes of this condition are numerous and complex, foremost among them being disruption of the biological clock and lack of sleep resulting from excessive screen time. Nutrition also plays a crucial role, as skipping breakfast and relying on fast food high in fat and low in vitamins and minerals deprives the body of the energy needed for concentration.
Academic and psychological effects
The effects of laziness extend far beyond reduced physical activity in the classroom; they impact the very core of the educational process. A student suffering from lethargy experiences difficulties in comprehension, weakened memory, and a persistent tendency to sleep, inevitably leading to a decline in academic performance. Psychologically, this can escalate to feelings of frustration and a lack of self-confidence due to the inability to keep up with peers, and may manifest as signs of anxiety or decreased motivation to learn.
A treatment prescription to restore activity
Dr. Al-Sharif offered a set of golden tips for overcoming these obstacles, emphasizing that breakfast is the brain's primary fuel and should be rich in protein and fruit to ensure a steady flow of energy. He also stressed the importance of students getting enough sleep , between 8 and 10 hours daily, to boost immunity and cognitive development.
The consultant advises incorporating physical activity into the daily routine for at least 30 minutes, even if it's just walking, due to its role in stimulating blood circulation and improving mood. He concluded by emphasizing the importance of balancing study and leisure, and limiting the use of smart devices, to build a healthy lifestyle that ensures students' academic success and good health.
