If you can’t sleep, your body is likely struggling to get enough rest. According to the CDC, an adult should get at least seven hours of sleep per night. However, many Americans don’t get the necessary amount. People who suffer from sleep deprivation face long-term consequences and can even damage their health. Fortunately, there are several ways to improve your sleep.
The first step is to identify your underlying cause for fatigue. If you’re feeling tired in the morning, this may be related to delayed sleep phase syndrome. Those with this condition often feel tired throughout the day. Other reasons include improper nap strategies. People who nap late in the afternoon end up waking up more frequently, which increases their chances of having a difficult time falling asleep at night.
Another possible cause of sleep deprivation is a mental health problem. People who suffer from anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues are more likely to experience trouble falling asleep. Stress and hormone fluctuations during the night can cause the body to produce less melatonin and reduce the amount of REM sleep. Additionally, these problems can increase your body temperature, which can make falling asleep more difficult.
The environment you sleep in may also be a contributing factor. For example, you may have trouble sleeping if your room is too noisy or has a loud, bright light. If you can’t sleep because of these factors, you may need to consult a doctor. Otherwise, you can simply try some simple lifestyle changes to improve your sleep.
