Tossing and turning each night because you find it difficult to switch off? Or do wake up in the early hours unable to get back to sleep? You’re not alone. Recent research suggests sleep problems have increased during the COVID pandemic as people become more anxious. A study by King’s College London found that two-thirds of us suffered from sleep problems during lockdown.
If you’ve been struggling with insomnia for months and self-help methods haven’t worked, then speak to your GP says Dr Daniel Cichi, senior GP from website Doctor 4 U. ‘They can assess whether there are any underlying issues that are causing sleep problems. Whether it’s breathing or mental health problems, or certain medications that you’re taking, your GP will be able to determine the cause so that you get the most appropriate treatment.’
But the majority of sleep problems can be helped by some simple changes to lifestyle and routine. Here’s what you need to know…
Stick to a routine
Key to establishing a good sleeping pattern is routine. Try to stick to the same going-to-bed and getting-up time each day. Sleep expert Dr Neil Stanley recommends trying to find out your ‘natural’ waking-up time and going with that if possible. ‘An alarm clock startles us from our sleep, which causes both an increase in our heart rate and blood pressure, as well as our stress levels,’ he says.
This story is from the November 24, 2020 edition of WOMAN'S WEEKLY.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the November 24, 2020 edition of WOMAN'S WEEKLY.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
GARDEN notes
Vibrant annuals and fruit and veg
Springtime IN VENICE
A weekend in this floating city is a feast for the senses
Your wellbeing
LATEST HEALTH SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR MIND AND BODY
Breathe EASY
Do you need an air purifier at home? We find out
Stress-free ENTERTAINING
Enjoy a seasonal prep-ahead spread with friends or family
Bonded FOR LIFE
As a new mother faced the most agonising of challenges, her best friend stepped in to hel
The easy way TO EXERCISE AND HEALTH
You don't need a gym to get fit, just mini bursts of activity throughout the day to get you in shape. Here's how
TESTED BY US!
Dry shampoo refreshes hair between washes - and lifts roots and boosts volume. Here are our favourites
'Coronation Street changed my life'
Actor Georgia Taylor on finding fun and lasting friendships on the cobbles
Your wellbeing
LATEST HEALTH SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR MIND AND BODY