The right amount of sleep is important for both our physical and mental health. A good sleep pattern can increase your health in many different ways. It can boost your immune system, help to protect you from colds and other infections, as well as reduce your chances of high blood pressure and obesity.
Why is sleep so important?
Occasional poor sleep can leave you tired and irritable, but if this continues regularly you may find it difficult to concentrate, which can increase the possibility of you making a mistake or having an accident. Longer term, poor sleep can increase the likelihood of heart disease, diabetes or other physical problems.
Poor sleep can impact on your mental health as well. In the short term this could mean you feel irritable or moody, but long term effects like depression and anxiety can also happen because of chronic sleep deprivation. Research shows that the correct amount of sleep can help make you more patient and able to listen and concentrate better - all of which are important in the workplace. Lack of sleep can make problems seem bigger, make you overreact to situations, increase conflict and make you more emotional - which have the potential to cause damage to your relationships with colleagues or managers at work.
So, good sleep is important not only for your health, but also for your workplace relationships and your ability to do your job well.
Sleep Hygiene
Sleep Hygiene is the term we use to describe a variety of habits and practices to help us sleep better. If you are struggling to get the right amount of sleep then have a look at the Sleep Hygiene tips below:
This infographic from www.nosleeplessnights.com is an excellent visual for good Sleep Hygiene tips:
Sleep and Meditation Apps
Try a sleep app for some more tips and ideas on meditation techniques. Click on the links below to find out more about each app. If you find one you like, why not download it from the app store on your phone or tablet*:
*Be aware that some apps may cost to download or have in-app purchases or subscriptions.
Useful Websites
There are plenty of websites with information about getting a good night's sleep, check out some of the following:
No Sleepless Nights
Sleepstation Resources
The Sleep Charity
If you are struggling with your sleep routine, speak to your Employment Coordinator who will be able to signpost you to the right service or resources to help you.