The American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the Sleep Research Society recommends that adults get 7 or more hours of sleep per night. Sleep is essential to good health, yet many people struggle to get enough. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), 1 in 3 adults get less than the recommended amount of sleep. Not getting enough sleep can have serious effects on your health and is linked to several chronic diseases and conditions.
In addition to getting the right amount of sleep, good sleep quality is also essential. Signs of poor sleep quality include not feeling rested even after getting enough sleep, repeatedly waking up during the night, and experiencing symptoms of sleep disorders. You can find more information on the CDC listing of sleep disorders.
Tips for better sleep
To help you feel more productive, healthy, and focused, the CDC lists some tips that can help improve your sleep health.
- Go to bed and get up at the same time each day, including weekends.
- Keep the bedroom quiet, dark, and a comfortable temperature.
- Remove electronic devices from the bedroom.
- Avoid large meals, caffeine, and alcohol before bedtime.
- Be active during the day to help you fall asleep at night.
Shift work may make getting quality sleep even more challenging. We have developed a guide on the Employee Resources website to help you understand the effects of shift work on your sleep, and to provide you with tools to improve your sleep quality.
Give your body and mind the rest it needs and deserves. If you think you have a serious sleep condition, consult with your physician. For additional resources and information about developing good sleep habits, visit the Employee Resources website and the CDC sleep and sleep disorders website.