Wellbeing Wednesday: Getting a better night’s sleep

February 10, 2021

good night’s sleep is incredibly important for your health and wellbeing. In fact, it’s equally as important as eating healthy and exercising. Unfortunately, there’s a lot that can interfere with natural sleep patterns which means people are now sleeping less than they did in the past.

Here are some top tips for getting a better night’s sleep:

1. Keep regular sleep hours: Going to bed when you feel tired and getting up at roughly the same time helps teach your body to sleep better. Try to avoid napping where possible.
2. Confront sleeplessness: If you are lying awake unable to sleep, do not force it. Get up and do something relaxing for a bit, and return to bed when you feel sleepier.
3. Create a restful environment: Dark, quiet and cool environments generally make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. Watch our video for tips on how to sleep better.
4. Write down your worries: If you often lie awake worrying about tomorrow, set aside time before bed to make a list for the next day. This can help put your mind at rest. This also works if you wake up in the middle of the night writing the idea down help put that to the back of your mind till you wake up.
5. Move more, sleep better: Being active can help you sleep better. These videos can get you going, but remember to avoid vigorous activity near bedtime if it affects your sleep. Exercise you can do from home.
6. Put down the pick-me-ups: Caffeine and alcohol can stop you falling asleep and prevent deep sleep. Try to cut down on alcohol and avoid caffeine close to bedtime.

There is a variety of support lines the Trust offers for colleagues regarding mental health and wellbeing:

• Book a chat at the sanctuary by calling 0121 507 5886
• Call our counselling service on 0800 06 96 222 between 7am – 11pm
• Have a conversation with one of our REACT Practitioners by calling 0121 507 5886
• Bereavement support can be accessed by calling 0300 303 4434 between 8am – 8pm