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Physical wellbeing - Sleep

Sleep is as important to our health as eating, drinking and breathing. It allows our bodies to repair themselves and our brains to consolidate our memories and process information. Poor sleep is linked to physical problems such as a weakened immune system and mental health problems such as anxiety and depression.

The NHS recommends 8 hours sleep per night, however the average adult in the UK only sleeps for 6 hours 1 9 minutes which is 1 hour 41 minutes less than the recommended amount. The average person is getting 614 hours (25.6 days) less sleep than they should do each year. Insufficient sleep can lead to:

- Increased blood pressure - Type 2 diabetes - Heart disease - Anxiety and depression - Weight gain - Reduction in cancer-fighting cells - Increased risk of stroke - Build-up of a toxic protein linked to Alzheimer’s disease

Many of us may be find sleeping well a challenge at the moment, so we have some tips below to assist you in getting a better night's sleep:

Keep regular sleep hours: Going to bed when you feel tired and getting up at roughly the same time each days helps teach your body to sleep better. You should try to avoid napping where possible as this could impact your sleeping pattern. Create a restful environment: Dark, quiet and cool environments generally make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. Confront sleeplessness: If you're lying awake unable to sleep, don't force it. Get up and do something relaxing for a bit, and return to bed when you feel sleepier. Write down your worries: If you often lie awake worrying about tomorrow, set aside some time before bed to make a list for the next day. This can help put your mind at rest. Put down the pick-me-ups: Caffeine and alcohol can stop you falling asleep and prevent a deep sleep. Try to cut down on alcohol and avoid caffeine close to bedtime. Try a sleep app: Apps like Sleepio or Calm can help with meditation and sleep.

If you are concerned about the amount and quality of sleep you are having, and the effects it is having on other aspects of your life, you should speak to your GP, who will be able to help and provide further guidance and support.

Visit the physical health and wellbeing page on Our Place for more information.

Financial wellbeing

Many of you may be concerned about your finances during these uncertain times, so we have put together some key information that may help you manage your finances.

Information we have been provided from charitable organisations show that worrying about your finances can have a huge impact on your overall wellbeing but in particular your mental wellbeing.

Health and benefits consultant Mercer, have provided "a guide to money in the time of coronavirus", which gives a clear explanation of things that you can do that may help you stay on top of your finances. If you are worried about your financial wellbeing then this in turn can have a huge effect on your mental and physical wellbeing. View the guide online to see how the below topics could help you feel more confident about your finances: