Rest Easy

I wish. Sleeping is sometimes very difficult to do. Especially if you are experiencing depression and anxiety. Getting enough sleep is necessary to have good mental health.

Here are a few tips to try and assist with the all important area of getting good sleep.

• Sleep in a very dark, cool, tidy and quiet environment

• Have fresh air in your sleeping room

• Increase exposure to natural light during daylight hours

• Use bright light therapy early in the morning if you struggle to fall asleep, and an extra dose of bright light in the afternoon to help stay asleep

• Imagine putting all your worries and responsibilities in a box on the shelf to set them aside as you get into bed.

• Have a smaller evening meal and don't eat several hours before bed

• Have a regular sleep schedule and keep it

• Establish a going to bed routine

• Exercise each day

• Put technology aside several hours before bed

• Watch out for medications that disrupt sleep

• Try using a weighted blanket

• Try using some calming bilateral stimulation (for some it has the opposite effect)

• Progressive muscle relaxation

• Focus on your breathing

• Aromatherapy

• Gentle yoga/stretching before bed