By: Helen M. Thamm, APRN, CPC
Do you routinely get less than six hours of sleep per night? If you do, you are not alone. We are now considered to be a nation of 
people who are so much “on the go” we don’t take time for needed rest and recuperation. People who do not get the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep per night, tend to get sleepy and be less able to concentrate during the day. They also tend to get sick with “colds” and “flu” more often. At work, this may mean being less productive. Sleep deprivation can also cause people to become“cranky” which is not pleasant for anyone who has to work with them!
5 Secrets to Getting a Good Night’s Sleep:
- Go to bed about the same time every night.
- Refrain from caffeine for at least five hours before bed.
- Don’t drink alcohol before bed.
- Keep your room dark and free from electronics that have lights on. (NO TV in the bedroom)
- Read or listen to something that is positive and relaxing just before bed. (NO NEWS STORIES, please).
While some people may need medication to help them sleep occasionally, taking it routinely can actually cause dependence, which is another whole problem.
A good jingle to remember: You can’t feel at your best, unless you get enough rest!
Read my article on Sleep Deprivation here…
Helen M. Thamm, APRN,CPC is a certified career success and wellness coach. She is the author of the new manager’s success toolkit book: How to Manage with a Magic Wand (No, Don’t Hit Your “Problem Employees” over the Head with it!) and co-author with Dr. John Ellis of the bestselling book: The Wellness Code. Helen can be reached for questions at her educational website: NurseCareerSuccess.com, email hidden; JavaScript is required or email hidden; JavaScript is required You can follow her on www.Twitter.com/nursecareersucc
That’s a great post, I could also add that for me the best way to fall asleep is to listen to some monotone speech from my CD player.