It seems such a simple thing, but a good night’s sleep can really change your health and your life. There are clear connections between good quality sleep and mental health. Sleep is the fuel our body and our mind need to function properly. If we’re out of fuel, then we can come to a standstill. If we are tired, we can feel irritable, are unable to think clearly, even feel physically unwell and can have a feeling of not being in control of life and things going on around us. When you don’t get the rest you need, life can become very challenging and full of difficulties.
Most adults should have ideally eight hours of sleep a night to function at their best and to boost their immune system to ward of physical illnesses. However, it is estimated that up to three in four adults in the UK get less than seven hours sleep a night. Some research has shown that being awake for 19 hours a day is as cognitively impairing as being drunk. Lack of good quality sleep can also be a contributor to developing depression and/or generalised anxiety disorder, as well as being a factor in the risk of heart conditions and obesity. So, what’s the best way to ensure you get those precious eight hours of shut-eye?
There have been numerous research projects undertaken into sleep and quality sleep. The following tips may help if you are struggling to sleep.