Some people have trouble switching off their mind at night and falling asleep, whereas others can’t seem to stay awake for very long at all.
There are so many different ways that sleep can cause problems in your life and even more potential causes. Here are some of the most common sleep issues and ways to address them.
What is Healthy Sleep?
First of all, it may be useful to outline the differences between healthy and unhealthy sleep. The body needs to rest to heal and conduct vital processes.
Too little sleep can make it harder for these processes to be completed. Too much sleep can upset the body’s chemical rhythms.
Interrupted sleep gets in the way of the natural sleep patterns that are necessary to overall good health.
Some people need only six or seven hours of sleep to feel refreshed and others require eight or nine, but it is the quality of the sleep that matters most.
1. Underlying Health Conditions
Plenty of health conditions can lead to poor sleep. Some result in oversleeping due to the fatigue that they cause, while others interrupt your sleep and leave you in a perpetual state of tiredness.
Difficulty breathing at night can make it harder for your body to release the tension of the day and sink into restful sleep.
While some snoring is normal, if you find that it is causing you distress or affecting your breathing, then consult an ENT specialist doctor who can advise you on next steps.
2. Poor Sleep Hygiene
Sleep hygiene is the combination of efforts to make sleep as healthy as possible. This includes maintaining a good sleep routine, preparing for bed thoughtfully, and making sure that your body is primed for meaningful rest.
Your habits will differ from other people’s, but this doesn’t mean they are necessarily unhealthy. Learn how long you need to sleep, what time of day suits you best, and what kind of environment relaxes you the most.
3. Unsuitable Sleep Environment
Comfort is an important part of getting a good sleep. When your body is relaxed you can more easily let sleep take hold.
Take the time to find out which sleeping position your body prefers and what kind of sleeping surface you like best.
Some people need a soft mattress and a warm room while others need firmness and a gentle breeze. It depends on your weight and your sleeping position as to what mattress and pillow will suit you best.
4. Anxiety and Distractions
Anxiety is a hugely common cause of poor sleep. If you frequently find yourself awake at night unable to drift off due to the racing thoughts in your head, then you may be holding onto stress from your daily life that is preventing your body from relaxing fully.
If you believe that anxiety is stopping you from achieving healthy sleep, consider getting in touch with a mental health professional who can help you examine potential solutions. Getting to the bottom of the problem is the first step to solving it.
