The Digest | New Jersey Magazine
Issue link: https://magazines.vuenj.com/i/1326760
Sleep affects elements of mental, emotional and physical health, including immune system strength, memory, alertness, and mood. Inadequate sleep can lead to health problems, disorientation, fatigue, mood disorders, and overall frustration. A lack of sleep can cause behavioral changes that can put a strain on personal relationships, but it can also be dangerous. Sleepiness can lead to decreased motor function, heightening the risk for accidents. Even those who do get the recommended amount of sleep may not feel refreshed and ready for the day when they wake due to poor sleep quality. Laying in bed for over twenty minutes without falling asleep, waking up periodically during the night, and restlessness (tossing and turning) are all signs of irregular and poor sleep. Getting just one hour less than the recommended 7 hours of sleep can take your body four days to readjust and for sleeping patterns to return to normal. In the United States, 68% of adults have reported having trouble sleeping at least once a week, so what is causing irregular sleep patterns and the lack of quality sleep to become so common? Your daily habits directly correlate to your sleeping patterns. Unhealthy habits, such as using tobacco and drinking alcohol regularly, can contribute to many sleep problems. A lack of exercise, poor diet and late-night eating can also make it difficult for someone to fall asleep and stay asleep. Even drinking caffeine in the aernoon, or having significant stress in your day can lead to sleeping issues. ose with psychological disorders and pre-existing health conditions are more likely to struggle with sleep due to the brain and body being over-active while trying to rest. Sometimes, sleeping problems can arise from physical sensations and discomfort. It is recommended that you sleep in a cool, dark and quiet room. A cooler temperature, non-distracting colors and decor, and removing light from the space makes for a soothing sleeping environment. e pillows and mattress you use can also contribute to discomfort and a lack of sleep. e use of electronics, exercising or doing anything non- relaxing before bed can overstimulate the brain, leading to trouble falling asleep. Whatever the reason may be for poor sleeping habits, it is important to tackle it so the lack of sleep does not negatively impact your life. V U E N J . C O M 87