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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SLEEP IMPORTANT WHEN STRESS, ANXIETY INCREASE

During these stressful times, sleep is even more important for our health

April 23, 2003  --

For more information on our Sleep Disorders Lab, click on this link.

            The television screen brings vivid details of the war in Iraq into our homes while the increased threat of terrorist attacks looms over communities. The weak economy has led to belt tightening in the business sector, causing layoffs, higher unemployment and a less-than-inviting job market. The combination of these and other events is causing increased anxiety and stress levels for millions of people, often resulting in sleep disruptions that range from trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, to waking early or having nightmares.

            Lost sleep and the resulting daytime sleepiness affect our mood, behavior, and performance. In effect, we are how we sleep. How we sleep at night affects who we are, what we do, and how we do during the day. A night of seven to nine hours of restful, uninterrupted sleep becomes particularly important during times of high stress and anxiety.

            In order to help people address their sleep problems and their need for sleep, the National Sleep Foundation and The Bellevue Hospital’s Sleep Disorders Center offer the following information about sleep problems and symptoms that can signal inadequate sleep, and tips for helping people maximize the sleep they do get during times of high stress and anxiety:

Don’t expect to fall asleep immediately after hearing or watching disturbing news. Stop listening or watching to news programs at least one hour before going to sleep.
Engage in a relaxing, non-alerting activity at bedtime such as reading or listening to music. For some, soaking in a warm bath or hot tub can be helpful. Avoid activities that are mentally or physically stimulating.
Do not eat or drink too much before bedtime. Alcohol is not a sleep aid; don’t use it to try to help you sleep.
Only get into bed when you’re tired. If you don’t fall asleep within 15 minutes, get out of bed, go to another room and engage in a relaxing activity such as reading. Return to your bed when you’re sleepy.
Create a sleep-promoting environment that is quiet, dark, cool and comfortable.
Consume less or no caffeine during the day. If you feel tired, substitute a short nap of 15-20 minutes for caffeine, but for people suffering from insomnia, daytime naps should be avoided.
Avoid alcohol and nicotine, especially close to bedtime.
Do not exercise within three hours of bedtime.