Proper sleep each night is important for overall physical and mental health.
If you're having trouble sleeping, here are some ideas to help.
What to do when you can't sleep:
- Drink a glass of milk/ warm milk
- Get a massage
- Take a warm bath
- Drink herb tea
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol and tobacco before bedtime
- Invest in a quality mattress
- Sleep on your back
- Avoid naps during the day
- Avoid illuminated alarm clocks
- Sleep in a cooler room
- Sleep in a darker room
- Use "white noise" such as a fan or soothing water sounds
- Don't watch TV or read a book before going to bed
- Visualize something boring or peaceful
- Practice deep breathing techniques
Be sure to visit your doctor to discuss your problem, potential causes and solutions.
Good sleep is vital to health.
Over the counter sleep aids are meant for rare cases, not to be used on a regular basis.
If you're becoming addicted to them or find that you cannot sleep at all without an over the counter sleep aid, you need to see your doctor.
Some people also try to use alcohol to self-medicate.
While you may feel that it helps you sleep at first, it actually increases insomnia and long term sleeplessness.
If you are having trouble sleeping, alcohol should be avoided until the problem is cleared up.