Air Traffic Controllers Bring To Light Problem Of Sleep Deprivation In America

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - You don't have to be an air traffic controller or the Vice President of the United States, to feel the effects of sleep deprivation. Some commuters in Center City shared their stories Friday morning.

If you want to stay sharp, you need your eight hours of sleep, right?  But many people say eight hours is a luxury they can't afford.

"Unfortunately, I'm not getting enough sleep. I average about three to four hours a night. On a good night, maybe five to six hours," Sharon said while waiting for a bus. "While I'd love to think that it's not affecting my job performance, I think there are times during the day that I feel a little bit not as alert -- not as keen as I could be."

Clara, who works as a therapy manager at a hospital, gets about five hours a night.

"Oh, I definitely need more... that's what this coffee's for!  It's a grande!"

Clara was one of many commuters carrying a cup of Joe, no doubt in an effort to chemically counteract that sleepy feeling.

Reported by Mike DeNardo, KYW Newsradio