One of the single most effective things you can do for your health this week is prioritise your sleep.
Sleep health week, August 5-9, is a reminder of the vital role sleep has in the maintenance of physical and mental health.
Indeed, sleep, along with nutrition and regular movement is considered one the “three pillars” to health.
This year’s theme “Pathways to Better Sleep” encourages people to think about the many ways they can improve their sleep as well as the things that can get in the way of sleep quality.
In a recent Parliamentary report on the state of Australia’s sleep, it was found that four in every 10 people are regularly not getting enough quality sleep.
It is also estimated that one in five Australians are affected by a major sleep disorder such as sleep apnea.
The occasional disturbed night’s sleep or a brief bout of insomnia is normal. However, chronic poor sleep (over three months) puts us at risk of getting unwell, making poor decisions, getting into accidents and generally being a bit grumpy to be around.
Here’s a few tips for this week to encourage a positive pathway to better sleep:
– Try to keep a regular sleep routine that involves the same bedtime and wake time each day (even on weekends).
– Prioritise a wind down routine before bedtime – for example a bath, reading time, quiet hobbies, time with pets.
– Respect the vital role sleep has in maintaining our health and well-being by allowing enough time to settle and have a good night’s sleep free from distractions.
– Don’t worry too much if you have rough patch with your sleep. We have good inbuilt mechanisms in the brain and body that help get our sleep back on track without us needing to do too much. However, if your sleep is poor due to snoring or stopping breathing for long periods, that is something to get checked out with your doctor.
– If your sleep has been very disturbed for a long time (over three months or years) then you might need some help to get it on track. Consider taking action on that this week.
“Putting the attention on your sleep health is a great act towards your overall health this week. If you are concerned about your sleep the Sleep Health Foundation has excellent resources available, should you wish to find out more,” local psychologist Vikki White said.
“Or you could have a chat with your GP or mental health professional to learn more about how you can find Pathways to Better Sleep.”
Vikki has worked as a psychologist in private practice in Bairnsdale for 25 years and holds a special interest in sleep health.
