Sleep Deprivation Risks Every Veteran Should Know - Tango Alpha Lima

About this episode

Dr. Sara Alger discusses the critical importance of sleep for veterans and the consequences of chronic sleep deprivation.

Sleep isn't a luxury — it's a mission-critical function. And for veterans, the stakes are even higher. Dr. Sara Alger, Sleep Research Scientist with the Psychological Health Branch at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, unpacks what chronic sleep deprivation is actually doing to your brain and body — and what you can do about it. Alger explains why the military culture of "I'll sleep when I'm dead" carries real long-term consequences, how combat-trained sleep patterns can follow you home long after deployment, and why those 3 a.m. wake-ups may be more biology than disorder. She also makes the case for tactical napping as a legitimate performance tool — not a sign of weakness. Whether you're dealing with PTSD-related sleep disruption, years of short nights, or just waking up exhausted, this conversation offers science-backed answers and practical strategies. Also in this episode: a bipartisan effort to expand overdose protection for veterans, the wartime origins of Daylight Saving Time, and how the Star-Spangled Banner became official. SHOW LINKS Learn more about Buddy Checks Join The American Legion Family USA 250 Challenge Learn more about the Walter Reed Army…

People in this episode

Guest: Dr Sara Alger

Topics covered

• sleep deprivation
• veterans
• mental health
• tactical napping
• PTSD
• overdose protection
• Daylight Saving Time
• Star-Spangled Banner

Keywords

• sleep research
• military culture
• performance tools
• health strategies

Mentioned in this episode

Products: Tango Alpha Lima

Books & works: the Star-Spangled Banner

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