Better Sleep, Better Mental Health

Getting consistent sleep is a core component of a good quality of life. When we prioritize getting a good night’s sleep, we also prioritize our mental health. Even one night of poor sleep can lead to a decreased mood, an increase in anxiety, fatigue and other challenges.

How can you get better sleep? Here’s some tips: 

• Your bedroom should be quiet, dark and cool
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, nicotine and other substances that negatively affect your ability to fall and stay asleep
• Stop looking at screens at least 30 minutes before you want to fall asleep (ie, phone, tablet, tv, computer, etc). 
• If you do wake up in the middle of the night, don’t spend time looking at your phone and checking email
• Try to go to bed and wake up around the same time every day
• Don’t take a nap later in the day
• Don’t exercise right before bed
• Don’t eat a large heavy meal before bed
• As the day progresses, drink less fluids so that you don’t wake up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom
• Try relaxation techniques before bed such as deep breathing and meditation

If you’d like to learn more about better sleep hygiene or other topics, contact me today for a free consultation. Take care and be well. Rich Lombino, Therapist & Lawyer