Sleep problems are incredibly common among Americans. In fact, at least 70% of American adults report having difficulty sleeping at least one night a month.

And that report is before the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has left many Americans experiencing worries and anxieties like never before, which is negatively impacting our sleep. Our team at AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail has some tips on how you can get the sleep you need.

What’s Disrupting Our Sleep?

While we can’t answer that definitively, in many cases, our sleep is being disrupted by stress and anxieties. It can be impossibly difficult to quiet your mind sometimes, even when you’re trying to sleep.

If stress is a factor in your sleep issues, you will also likely find yourself experiencing other stress- or burnout-related symptoms, which can affect both your physical and mental health.

Symptoms of Stress

• Mood or appetite changes
• Lack of motivation
• Increased cynicism
• GI issues
• Headaches
• More frequent illness

How Can I Get More Sleep?

First things first—prioritize getting enough quality sleep. How much is enough? Well, most adults need between seven and nine hours of sleep for optimal health.

Your habits go a long way toward determining the quality and duration of your sleep. Implementing healthy lifestyle habits and practicing good sleep hygiene can help you get the sleep you need to be at your best.

Optimal Sleep Hygiene

• Keep your bedroom cool and dark.
• Don’t use electronics inside the bedroom, particularly close to bedtime.
• If you must use an electronic device, try using blue light glasses to filter out the sleep-disrupting light.
• Create a calming night routine that helps your body wind down for sleep.
• Set and stick to a consistent bedtime and wake time, even on days you don’t work.

Not feeling your best? Schedule an AFC TeleCare appointment or stop by AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail to get the care you need!