Getting the Necessary Zzzzzzs
Did You Know?
The Sleep and Anxiety Center of Houston (SACH) is on campus and offers low-cost assessments and treatments to determine the precise nature of your sleeping problems. SACH@tlmes.uh.edu 713-743-3400
Below are some tips to help you get a better night’s rest which can also help improve your performance, mood, and health for the following day.
-
Don’t take naps after 3 p.m.
Later afternoon naps can make it harder to fall asleep at night. If you do plan to take a nap at any point during the day, make sure it is no longer than an hour. -
Have a good sleeping environment.
Get rid of all things that can distract you from sleep such as bright lights, TVs, computers, and even uncomfortable beds. Keeping your room at a cool temperature can also be beneficial. -
Don’t lie in bed awake.
The anxiety of not being able to sleep can make it harder for you to fall asleep. If you’re still awake after 20 minutes, get up and do something relaxing till you feel yourself getting sleepy. -
Stick to a sleep schedule.
Wake up and fall asleep at the same time each day, including weekends. Use Bedtime (iPhone_ and apps such as Sleep Better or Sleet Tracker to set reminders that help you stick to your sleeping schedule.
- 7-8The number of hours of sleep per day recommended to adults 18 years of age or older. – CDC.gov/sleep
- 18% Men and 30% WomenPercentage of college men and women that report suffering from insomnia in the past 3 months, respectively. –campusmindworks.org
- 73%The approximate percentage of college students that report having sleep problems. - campusmindworks.org
- 24%The percentage of UH students that always use their bed for things other than sleep such as talking on the phone, watching TV, playing video games, and doing homework. – Campus Wide Survey 2016