Things you need to know about sleep health.

How can sleep affect work?

During sleep, we slow our breathing, relax our muscles, and our neurons switch to a sleeping state. This transition triggers the biological processes that rejuvenate both our physical and mental state.

The National Sleep Foundation and National Library of Medicine report that adults in the UK need an average of 7-9 hours of sleep, yet a recent study found that over a third of people get less than 6 hours each night.

Why is this concerning?

When people don’t get enough rest, their bodies and brains don’t function properly. This can result in slower thinking, physical reactions, and an overall feeling of exhaustion.

Over time, the effects of sleep deprivation can worsen, leading to weight gain, heart disease, decreased cognitive abilities, and even dementia.

Well, what can you do?

• Think about your priorities – Often people give up sleep to complete tasks, watch television, or spend time with friends. Examine the reasons why you stay up late and consider if these activities are really worth the adverse impacts of inadequate rest. If you often choose work or leisure pursuits instead of rest, then it may be time to rethink your priorities and create a clear divide between work and leisure activities.
• Give yourself space – Interested in improving your concentration and productivity in the workplace? If you are having trouble sleeping due to an unpredictable work schedule, it would be wise to discuss this with your boss, or your HR department. Evidence suggests that employees who are given the space to disconnect after hours and properly rest are more likely to be alert and productive during the workday.
• Be realistic – For those unable to adjust their work hours, strategies can be implemented to remain alert and productive during their shifts. These may include lifestyle changes, like appropriate sleeping patterns and healthy eating habits, as well as other approaches in order to effectively manage their work schedule despite the conflicts with their ideal sleep-wake cycle.
• Sleep hygiene – Creating a restful sleep atmosphere is key to successful sleep hygiene. To do that, you should make a plan to optimise your bedroom, develop a consistent sleep schedule, craft a bedtime routine and break any habits that make it difficult to sleep during the day. Doing so will enable you to take advantage of the positive effects of good sleeping habits.
• The GP Helpline – If you’re experiencing sleep problems, talking to a doctor or sleep specialist is a great way to start. The GP helpline can provide a customised plan to improve your sleep and provide useful advice to combat work-related exhaustion. Get the help you need today by contacting the GP Helpline today!