NATIONAL SLEEP AWARENESS WEEK
MARCH 6TH-13TH, 2016

How much sleep do we need and what can happen when we're not getting enough? Not getting enough sleep is a problem that affects a large number of Americans. If you are not getting enough sleep, you should make sleep a priority and practice good sleep habits.

Sleep is an important part of good health. Sleeping less than 7 hours per night is linked to increased risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, stroke, high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and poor mental health, as well as early death. Not getting the recommended amount of sleep can affect your ability to make good decisions and increases the chances of motor vehicle crashes.

How can you get healthy sleep?

Some habits that can improve your sleep health:

• Be consistent. Go to bed at the same time each night and get up at the same time each morning, including on the weekend
• Make sure your bedroom is quiet, dark, relaxing, and at a comfortable temperature
• Remove electronic devices, such as TVs, computers, and smart phones, from the bedroom
• Avoid large meals, caffeine, and alcohol before bedtime
• Avoid tobacco/nicotine
• Get some exercise. Being physically active during the day can help you fall asleep more easily at night.