Is it Sleep Deprivation or a Sleeping Disorder?
Sleep is as important in your daily routine as brushing your teeth and showering. Sleep is critical to maintaining and improving your physical and mental well-being. The National Sleep Foundation estimates 47 million Americans are sleep deprived, recommending 8 hours of sleep for most adults.
- Weight gain
- Depression
- Decreased memory
- Poor Concentration
- Irritability
- Relationship trouble
What can you do to help yourself get the sleep you need? Set a sleep pattern for yourself and get into a regular sleep routine. Start with the minimum of 7 hours each night for a consecutive week. If you awake unrested, add 30 minutes each night until you notice your alertness return.
A few ideas to help you make Sleep changes at home:
- Log the sleep hours of each family member, before and after you try to add sleep to your new year. (You’ll be surprised!)
- Cut out all electronics 1 hour before bedtime.
- Eliminate caffeinated drinks after dinnertime.
If you are getting a full night’s sleep and STILL wake unrefreshed and fatigued throughout the day, you may be suffering from a sleep disorder. Please, consult with your physician and let him know you are concerned. Make changes today to start off on the path to a full night of sleep, every night!
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