One of the most common underlying factors that can contribute to sleep difficulties is anxiety and stress, both of which can trigger anxiety and stress can be seen as potential triggers that disrupt sleep patterns and lead to difficulty falling or staying asleep. Many people may find themselves ruminating over recent events, future events, decisions to be made, filled with anxiety, dread, or restless.
Understanding the link between anxiety, stress, and sleep can help people identify the root causes of their poor quality sleep.
If you want to improve your sleep, you might consider some of the following tips:
- Consistency: Sticking to a regular sleep schedule will help to regulate your body's internal clock and can improve your quality of sleep.
- Relaxation: Engaging in a calming bedtime routine can help you to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
- Comfort: Creating a comfortable sleep environment for yourself, this can reduce any physical discomfort and promote relaxation for better sleep.
- Reduce: Reducing activity on mobile phones, tablets, and other devices will give your brain a welcome break from the the blue light technology that disrupts your sleep patterns, including the speed of videos and information to your neural networks.
- Limitation: Try avoid drinks with caffeine and alcohol before you go to bed, this can prevent sleep disruption and improve sleep quality.
- Stress-management: Managing stress through relaxation techniques can reduce anxiety and promote relaxation for better sleep.
- Exercise: Regular exercise can improve your overall health and well-being.
- Patience: Improving sleep habits takes time and consistency, and it's important to be patient and persistent in order to see results.
- Avoidance: Avoiding daytime napping can help get a better sleep at night.
Carol Duffy