A good night’s sleep is important to support your health and wellbeing. When we don’t get a good night’s sleep, it can affect our mood, our stress levels, our health and more.
Up to 45% of adults are sleep deprived
According to a study from the Sleep Foundation, women are more likely than men to have trouble falling asleep, waking too early, feeling unrefreshed, exhausted and irritable, even when they sleep as much as men.
How lack of sleep can affect your day
If you’re tired, you are less likely to perform at your best, making it difficult to concentrate and make decisions.
If you’ve had a restless night’s sleep, you are more likely to be irritable & stressed during the day ahead.
Consistent poor sleep can affect your long term wellbeing and may make you prone to more serious health conditions.
The most common sleep issues
Many people do not realise how important sleep is. There are many important things that the brain needs to do while asleep to help you function at your best.
- Too much caffeine or alcohol can act as stimulants and prevent you from sleeping well.
- Day to day living can be stressful which can interfere with sleep. Give yourself a chance to relax and unwind before going to bed.
- Failing to wind down before bed, such as exercising or using screens, can disturb sleep if too close to bedtime.
Top 5 tips for a good night’s sleep
Tip 1
Starting to wind down and relax the mind an hour before bed.
Tip 2
Stop using electronic devices (e.g. computers, smart phones, etc.) at least 1-2 hours before going to bed.
Tip 3
Ensuring the bed is comfortable and the bedroom is dark and at a comfortable temperature
Tip 4
Avoiding caffeinated drinks (e.g. coffee, tea, colas), nicotine and alcohol at least 2 hours before bedtime
Tip 5
Create a consistent bedtime routine so that your mind & body know it is time for rest
