
Feeling groggy? You are not alone. Nearly 80% of adults in the US report getting less than the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep a night. According to a recent CDC study, 40% reported unintentionally falling asleep during the day during the previous month and 5% reported nodding off while driving.
Sleep deprivation is a widespread public health concern, which can result in traffic accidents, weight gain, lowered immune system, mood disorders, and reduced productivity.
If you feel constantly tired, you may not be getting enough sleep at night, or the sleep you are getting may not be quality sleep.
You may be wondering:
What can I do to start sleeping better?
If you want to start waking up more refreshed and ready to tackle the day, here are a few strategies to get a better night’s sleep.
- Pay attention to your body. If you are unsure how much sleep you need, ask yourself: Do I feel tired? If the answer is yes, you most likely need more rest. Go to bed when you feel sleepy and try to wake up at the same time every morning.
- Take naps. Research shows that daytime naps can help boost your memory and productivity. Studies suggest that a 60–90 minute nap during the day can generate the same learning benefits as eight hours of sleep at night. Click here to read more about the science of naps.
- Track your sleep. Today, there are several apps, such as Sleep Cycle, that monitor the duration and quality of your sleep. Tracking your sleep can help you assess whether you are sleeping enough, or if you need to be sleeping better.
- Figure out when you feel most awake. Are you a morning person, or a night person? Listen to your body to discern when you are most productive. Everyone’s body works differently, and knowing how you function can help you create a sleep schedule that fits your circadian rhythms.
Sleeping better and feeling better
Sleep problems often correlate with other physical or mental health issues, such as stress and depression. If you are experiencing physical or emotional symptoms of sleep deprivation, Jennifer can help you develop strategies for sleeping better and feeling better.
For therapy that is compassionate and high quality, contact Jennifer today. Give her a call, or just fill out the contact form and click Send.