Are you Getting Enough Sleep?

One thing all humans have in common regardless of age, sex or race is sleep. Everyone all over the world must sleep. Sleep is a biological requirement for all of us, yet it is often not taken too seriously. We stay up late, get up early, wake up in the middle of the night with worry or we simply push through when we are tired to get more done. We live in a busy, maniac society where more is more. We struggle with sleep disorders, we are over-caffeinated, over-stimulated, depressed, have mood swings and poor performance. Could all this be associated with poor sleep quality? Absolutely!

Getting enough sleep and getting high quality sleep has a huge impact on your daily function, energy levels and overall performance. Insufficient sleep is associated with an increased risk of obesity, diabetes, injuries, poor mental health, compromised immune systems, stress on your heart, attention and behavior problems and lowers your life expectancy.

If you can sleep well, be thankful. Research states 50-70 million people in the U.S. suffer from insomnia (cannot fall asleep or stay asleep for long periods of time). Most people need 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Healthy sleep habits can make a big difference in your overall quality of life. Here are some tips to help you catch more zzz’s each night:

• Reduce screen time, especially before bedtime
• Limit light pollution in your bedroom, especially blue lights from TV’s, cell phones or even alarm clocks
• Get regular physical activity each day
• Cut back on caffeine and sugar
• Keep your bedroom decluttered and lower the temperature at night
• Stick to a regular sleep schedule even on the weekends
• Practice a relaxing bedtime ritual
• Avoid naps, if you have trouble sleeping
• Sleep on a comfortable mattress and pillow
• Avoid alcohol, cigarettes and heavy meals in the evening

Still having trouble sleeping? We can help. Witham Health Services is committed to keeping you healthy and we know just how important a good night’s rest really is. Witham’s Sleep Center offers a variety of diagnostic testing for those suffering from sleep disorders. If you are having trouble sleeping, don’t hesitate; call your Witham Primary Care Physician today.

To learn more about our sleep center click here.

Trina Rose (pictured right)


Coordinator


Witham Wellness Program


Witham Health Services