Relationship Between Stress and Sleep Disturbances in Young Adults: A Case Study

Sleep disturbances are prevalent among young adults, particularly those experiencing high levels of stress due to academic pressures, social dynamics, and personal challenges. Poor sleep quality can significantly impact cognitive functioning, mood, and overall well-being. This study examines the effects of stress-induced sleep disturbances in an 18-year-old female college student, referred to as "Sarah" for privacy. Over the past two months, Sarah has experienced difficulty falling asleep, frequent nocturnal awakenings, daytime fatigue, and heightened anxiety, which have negatively affected her academic performance and social interactions. Using structured assessment tools such as the Sleep Disturbance Questionnaire and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), this study evaluates the severity of Sarah’s sleep disturbances and their correlation with stress levels. Findings indicate that high stress levels significantly contribute to her disrupted sleep patterns. This study highlights the importance of stress management techniques, sleep hygiene improvements, and cognitive-behavioral interventions in mitigating the negative impact of stress on sleep quality.