Have you ever had one of those days where you struggle to keep your eyes open? Even while someone is talking to you or you are doing something that requires you to be alert? My sleep suffered greatly during my separation and divorce, a time when the nervous system is on alert.

Sleep issues are common in our 24/7 society. We are always available by phone, work around the clock and in different time zones, and have too many tasks to fit in a day. Parents of young children may be sleep deprived for months or even years.

Issues Caused by Lack of Sleep

Sleep issues can cause bigger life problems like difficulty with concentration and memory, poor judgment in decision making, moodiness, relationship issues (common with moodiness!), reduced efficiency, and periods of falling asleep throughout the day. It has also been linked to serious health issues such as diabetes and heart disease. Sleep issues are often under-diagnosed and under-treated. I can’t remember the last time a doctor, other than my latest naturopath, asked me a question about how much I sleep.

How much sleep does the average adult need? It is recommended that we get eight hours of sleep per night, though 20% of Americans report fewer than six hours a night. Many people are too tired to realize how much this lack of sleep is affecting their quality of life. The CDC recently reported that one third of Americans are sleep deprived.

Fortunately, much research has been done on this topic. Other than taking sleeping pills, which many Americans do on a regular basis, there are many ways to improve your sleep hygiene. Some of the things that are effective are looking at your sleep routines, limiting caffeine, alcohol and nicotine before bedtime, sleeping in a dark and cool room, and using relaxation techniques.

Improving your sleep hygiene may eliminate health risks, help with concentration and emotion regulation and even improve your relationships. Our e-course, Stagger, Stumble and Stand, addresses sleep issues and many other related topics for people grieving the loss of a relationship. Check it out here: https://www.graceuntetheredcourses.com/courses/stagger-stumble-and-stand

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