How Sleep Improves Mental Health

It is easy to lose focus on the importance of sleep and for most of us sleep is usually the first to go when we get overwhelmed with commitments or stress. According to Mental Health America, you’re more likely to succeed at your tasks and enjoy greater well-being if you get adequate sleep. We also know nearly two-thirds of Americans say they lose sleep because of stress. Lack of of sleep is linked to the following significant health issues:

• a greater risk of depression and anxiety
• increased risk of heart disease and cancer
• impaired memory
• a reduced immune system
• weight gain
• greater likelihood of accidents

Think about your individual sleep needs to help you combat daily stress. Seven to nine hours of sleep a night is recommended by experts. The questions below will assist you in assessing your sleep and help you take the necessary steps to improve and/or manage your stress.

• Am I often tired?
• Am I using caffeine to get through the day?
• Do I sleep well?
• Do I wake up feeling refreshed?
• Do I get drowsy while driving or watching TV?

Visit the National Sleep Foundation’s website for support on creating a healthy sleep routine.