Health Fix: Why You Should Prioritise A Better Night’s Sleep

Why You Should Prioritise A Better Night’s Sleep

You are probably during a lot of things to care for your health and wellbeing already, such as eating well and exercising regularly. But are you getting a decent amount of shut-eye? If you’re not, you could be putting your health at risk, and there are other issues to consider too.


How Much Sleep Do I Need?

According to the HSE in Ireland …


Sleep is important for your mental health. Most people need between 5 to 9 hours sleep a night. The ideal amount is 8 hours, but everyone’s different.

Sometimes it’s not always possible to get as much sleep as you would like. If you don’t sleep well, you won’t feel as alert as you should. You will feel easily agitated and your actions may seem slow.

– hse.ie


Health Fix - Why You Should Prioritise A Better Night's Sleep - woman happy in bed

 


The NHS in the UK also recommend that most adults need up to nine hours sleep a night, but advise the number could be between 6 to 9 hours of sleep a night.

You need to take this into account when considering your nighttime schedule, as it might be necessary to reduce your Netflix or gaming sessions if you know you have to get up early for work the next day.


Further Reading: 5 Top Tips for Creating the Perfect Bedroom Space


What Happens If I Don’t ‘Prioritise A Better Night’s Sleep’ and Don’t Get Enough Sleep?

If you’re somebody who doesn’t get enough sleep, you can probably answer this question yourself, at least in part. But as a heads up, this is what you can expect if you don’t get the required amounts of z’s.

  1. A lack of alertness. Tiredness can cause you to lose concentration. This can be hazardous when driving and you could get into trouble at work too.
  2. Sleepiness during the day. You might know this already if you have ever fallen asleep when watching TV or during a meeting at work.
  3. Memory lapses. Can’t find your car keys? They are probably in a noticeable place but if you can’t remember where you put them, your lack of sleep may be to blame.
  4. A short fuse. Tiredness can lead to moodiness and irritability, which is bad news for you and the people who come into your firing line.
  5. Lethargy. A lack of sleep can result in less energy, and this might mean you participate less in activities that you like to do.

Health Fix - Why You Should Prioritise A Better Night's Sleep - couple sleeping


These are short-term problems but there are longer-term issues to consider too. In relation to the above, these could include accidents that cause permanent injuries, relationship breakdowns, and problems at work.

Regular lack of sleep can also lead to serious health issues, such as high blood pressure, heart failure, diabetes, impaired immunity, and the chances of a stroke. For these reasons, getting a better night’s sleep could literally be a lifesaver – no better reasons to prioritise a better night’s sleep!

And if what we have said thus far isn’t incentive enough for you to get more sleep, know that sleep deprivation can affect your appearance too. This can include dark circles under your eyes and the early onset of wrinkles. If people regularly mistake your age as something older than you actually are, a lack of sleep may be to blame!


Further Reading: Sustainable Living – 6 Essential Hacks for a Clean Healthy Home


Health Fix - Why You Should Prioritise A Better Night's Sleep - The Life of Stuff


What If I Can’t Sleep?

If you struggle to sleep, there is probably a reason why. For many people, stress can be an issue, as worrisome thoughts can lead them to long nights awake. Writing your thoughts into a journal may help if this applies to you, and if you can relax with a long bath before bed or with a good book, you may get to sleep quicker.

If you have a sleep disorder, such as sleep apnea or insomnia, you should see your doctor. They will advise you on your particular problem and may suggest medication or a medical sleeping device. In the case of the latter, care does need to be taken. There have been instances of defective sleeping devices, as discussed by Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, who specialise in medical device cases. Your doctor will advise you of course, but it’s still a good idea to do your own research.

It might also be that you need a more comfortable mattress or you might even need a bigger bed! Switching off from your screens before bedtime is another good idea as these can interfere with your sleep.


Look for further advice with your GP and from reputable sites online, and do so as a priority, because as we have discussed, lack of sleep could cause you all kinds of problems.


Photos by Damir Spanic – CCO Licence


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