Addiction not only affects the person who abuses drugs and/or alcohol, but also those around them.
The connection between sleep and health is real. When we’re consistently getting better sleep, our overall health is positively impacted — and when we’re not, we notice the negative impacts as well. National Sleep Foundation’s 2023 Sleep Awareness Week is March 12-18, when the organization focuses on reemphasizing the important connection between your sleep and your health and well-being. Throughout the week, the organization provides research-based advice on the benefits of being your “best slept self” — and we’re looking forward to putting those plans into action for our best sleep health.
Why is good sleep so important? Sufficient sleep, specifically REM sleep, helps the brain to effectively process emotional information. When you’re asleep, your brain is working to evaluate and remember memories and thoughts — so lack of sleep is harmful to the processing and storing of positive emotional content. As you’d imagine, this can really influence your mood, among other things.
Research shows that mental health problems are directly connected to sleep, where sleeping problems may be both a cause and consequence of mental health problems. Getting at least 7 hours of sleep nightly has many benefits, including more energy, improved mood, better focus, improved immune system and better overall health.
Set yourself up for your best sleep ever by:
- – Creating a solid bedtime routine, including turning off electronics an hour before bed.
- – Practice nightly relaxation techniques.
- – Get regular exercise and daylight daily.
- – Make your bedroom your own personal oasis, with cozy bedding and a dimmed atmosphere.
- – Sticking to your set bedtime and committing to getting the rest you need to be your best self.