Sleep deprivation affects over one fourth of the American population. While this is most likely caused by our fast paced way of life, it can cause serious problems. For example, sleep deprivation can cause one to have a slower reaction time or to fall asleep at the wheel. Sleep deprivation is almost equal to intoxication while driving. Imagine if one fourth of the drivers on the road were drunk? Would you feel safe? You shouldn’t because over one hundred thousand accidents were caused in 2007 by sleepy drivers. This is why we all need to address sleep deprivation and learn how to cure it.
For starters, if you are suffering from extreme sleep deprivation you should consult your doctor. Sleep deprivation is very dangerous for you, for others, and for your health. You doctor will be able to prescribe you with medicine or suggest an over the counter treatment.
If you are suffering from minor sleep deprivation, you can, but do not have to, take over the counter medications. There are many other factors that can help you calm you and your brain down so that you are able to relax and sleep.
The first step to overcoming sleep deprivation is to watch what you are doing before you go to bed. Avoid exercising an hour before you want to sleep. Exercising keeps the body and brain stimulated and gives you energy. Try exercising in the morning instead. Also, avoid caffeine, nicotine, and sugary foods an hour before you go to bed, for some people even longer.
The second step is to avoid situations of stress. Stress can have a huge factor on how one sleeps. Avoid arguments before going to sleep. Call it truce for the night and settle the problem in the morning if you absolutely have to. Do not allow yourself to stay up all night worrying about it. As well, do not lay in bed worrying about sleep. This will also keep you up. Stay relaxed and try not to think about much. Bore yourself to sleep.
The third step is time management. Many people, especially Americans, do not get enough sleep because they feel there is too much to do and they do not have time for sleep. This is a big mistake on their part. Sleep is one of the most important things we can give our body and our brain. Sleep allows us to recharge, stay healthy, think clearly, and stay alert. Sleep allows us to be as productive as we can be.
So instead of choosing work over sleep, try to manage your time better so you can have both. Make a schedule for yourself every week, plan when you will work and when you will sleep. Write everything down, so you have a clear understanding of what you should do to accomplish all your tasks that week.
Sleeping is extremely important, so be sure to follow ALL of these so you are able to fall asleep right away and sleep throughout the night. Be sure to allow yourself to get between seven and eight hours of sleep each night. Also, try to stay on a regular sleeping pattern, it is much healthier for your body.
Jorge Reis is the author of
How to prevent sleep problems and
Why do you have sleep problems.
