The Sleep Diaries

Want better rest? The secret is analysing what happens around the clock, not just between the sheets. Read on for new shut-eye strategies that actually work

- Kristen Dold

Sleep is to health like coffee is to Mondays – totally essential.

Yet many of us aren’t getting enough (sleep, that is). Sleep Health Foundation stats show we’re significantly more likely than blokes to struggle falling asleep and wake too early, feeling unrefreshed, knackered and cranky. We’re also more likely to suffer from insomnia. At the same time – insult, meet injury – research shows we have a greater need for zzz than guys. (Suspected reason: women are bigger multitaskers, so we use our brains more.) One sleepless night can leave you dragging and willing the office clock around to 5pm, but if they add up, they can even shorten your life. People with sleep disorders have a higher risk for obesity, depression, diabetes and heart disease. And while the cause of interrupted nights is sometimes clear (ahem, partying neighbours), it can be tough to pinpoint what’s triggering wakefulness – and how to deal with it. The solution: keep a sleep diary. We asked three tired women to do just that – before passing their diaries along to top docs, who ID’d sneaky shut-eye thieves and suggested targeted strategies. Consider this your fast-track to dreamland.

Diary one

Nicole Kelley, 44

SLEEP HISTORY: Nicole’s insomnia began six years ago, when a new, high-pressure job made her start waking up in a panic in the middle of the night. Two years later, she left the position for a less-intense role. Her stress – and her shut-eye problems – dialled down, but she still suffers from two or three bouts of sleeplessness every couple of weeks, stirring in the middle of the night and unable to nod off again for hours. In the morning, it feels as if she has a horrible hangover. Nicole chronicled her behaviours and environment for two weeks.

Bedroom