With everything going on in the world right now, it’s only natural to feel a bit stressed out—or even completely stressed out. Whether you can’t stop thinking about how different college will be this year or you’re going insane from working from home for so long, there’s no shortage of stressful topics today. Stress can even affect the way people sleep. You might be experiencing stress-induced dreams, or maybe you aren’t even able to fall or stay asleep all night. If this is the case, you’re not alone. Arm yourself with these ways to get more sleep when you’re stressed.
When you’re stressing about almost anything, you may find it more difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. Check out some calming ways to get more sleep.
Have a Set Bedtime Schedule and Routine
Schedules and routines, while they may seem a bit rigid to the more free-spirited folks, are something every person craves. Schedules and regular routines help your body to feel relaxed and cared for. Knowing what to expect and when to expect it is a beautiful thing. Going to bed at the same time each night helps your body’s sleep pattern to level out. Also, having a set nighttime routine is a great way to signal to your body that it’s time to calm down, de-stress, and to get ready for sleep.
Extra de-stressing tip: Set your phone to turn on Do Not Disturb mode at the same time each night so that you limit your own screen time.
Make Your Bedroom a Sanctuary
Your bedroom is your space. This is a place where no stressful work, homework, thoughts, or feelings should be allowed. This is a space for you to enter and feel at home, welcomed, and stress-free—even if you’re not. Learn different ways to make your bedroom cozier. This is an amazing way to stop the feeling of stress at the door. Entering a cozy, comfy environment makes you feel sleepy and comforted without effort. Learn what tones and colors make you feel relaxed, and remove any clutter or overwhelming decor.
Extra de-stressing tip: Never work from or do stressful things in your bedroom; keep it as a stress-free work-free environment.
Talk To a Doctor
If you’re really unable to get sleep and it’s negatively affecting your life, or if you’re worried that something else may be going on, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor. A doctor can help you find the root of the problem and solve it. Many times, too much stress and a lack of sleep may require some mental health practices. Other times there’s an actual imbalance that medication can help. Either way, you should find a doctor you trust and ask for help. Sleep is essential to your functioning, so there’s no shame in asking for help!
