Sleep Hygiene Tips
Sleep and quality sleep are an important part of mental health. We often have a specific dental hygiene routine and it is just as important to have a sleep hygiene routine! Therapists often check-in with clients regarding their sleep habits and that is because sleep tells us a lot about how we are coping with mental health symptoms. Quality sleep can be helpful in managing your mood.
Here are some helpful tips for you to consider for sleep hygiene:
Reduce screen time before bed: It is known that blue light is not good for inducing sleep and as much as “doom scrolling” is tempting, it will not be helpful. Try no screens 30 minutes to 1 hour before bed.
Mindfulness: If falling asleep can be challenging, trying a mindfulness activity or sleep meditation can bring you back to the present moment.
Managing Hunger: Ever feel hungry when trying to fall or stay asleep? Be sure to have a small snack up to 1 hour before going to bed.
Consistency: A sleep schedule can be helpful. Trying to be consistent on weekends and holidays of your sleep and wake times is important in managing a sleep routine.
Be kind to yourself: Changing habits and routines is hard and does not happen overnight. Make small changes slowly.
