It’s no secret that our sleep patterns can affect our overall health. But it may surprise many that the impact extends much further than just how awake and alert we feel during the day. The amount and quality of sleep we get each night can have a major influence on our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. For instance, research has linked poor sleep to an increased risk for a multitude of chronic health conditions, including diabetes and heart disease. Sleep deprivation can also contribute to mental and emotional issues such as depression, anxiety, and impaired concentration.
The amount of sleep needed per night is highly individualised, but most adults will need between seven and nine hours to function optimally. This means you shouldn’t skimp on your bedtime routine in order to squeeze in more activities or tasks during the day—it’s important to prioritise rest. You can help ensure that you get adequate sleep each night by developing good sleep hygiene habits, such as going to bed and getting up at the same time daily; avoiding caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, and large meals late in the evening; avoiding screens before bed; and creating a restful, dark environment for sleep. With consistent effort, you can reap the physical and mental health benefits of good sleep.
Getting enough quality sleep is an important part of overall health. When we don’t get the amount or type of sleep we need, it can have serious consequences on our physical and mental wellbeing. So take some time to establish healthy sleep patterns that work for you—by doing so, you will be ensuring your body and mind are well rested, alert, and ready to take on whatever the day holds.