4 minute read
I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead” …. But What Are The Consequences?
By Tina Winchester
It was the rocker Warren Zevon that coined the phrase “I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead” but what he didn’t mention was there is a hefty price tag.
Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial to our physical and mental well-being. Studies show that sleep plays a vital role in maintaining good mental health, and a lack of sleep can lead to a range of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and mood disorders.
Sleep and mental health are closely linked, and one can impact the other in a variety of ways. Sleep helps to regulate mood and emotions, and a lack of sleep can lead to irritability, anxiety, and depression. Additionally, people with mental health issues often have difficulty sleeping, which can exacerbate their symptoms.
The relationship between sleep and mental health is complex and multifaceted. Research suggests that sleep disturbances may be both a cause and a symptom of mental health issues.
For example, a lack of sleep can lead to an increase in symptoms of anxiety and depression, but these same symptoms can also interfere with sleep, leading to a vicious cycle.
One of the most common mental health issues associated with poor sleep is anxiety. People with anxiety often experience racing thoughts and difficulty quieting their minds at night, leading to difficulty falling or staying asleep.
Additionally, a lack of sleep can make people more prone to anxiety and increase their overall levels of stress. Depression is another mental health issue that is closely linked to sleep.
People with depression often experience fatigue and a lack of energy, leading to excessive daytime sleepiness and difficulty falling asleep at night. Research suggests that sleep deprivation may play a role in the development of depression, as a lack of sleep can lead to changes in brain chemistry that increase the risk of developing depression.
Overall, the relationship between sleep and mental health is clear, and getting enough quality sleep is essential for maintaining good mental health. There are several strategies that people can use to improve their sleep and promote good mental health:
• Establish a regular sleep routine: Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day can help to regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle, making it easier to fall asleep at night.
• Create a sleep-friendly environment: Making sure that the bedroom is quiet, cool, and dark can help to promote better sleep.
• Avoid stimulants: Consuming caffeine or alcohol before bedtime can interfere with sleep quality, so it is best to avoid these substances in the hours leading up to bedtime.
(It isn’t true when you tell yourself you sleep better after a drink, the sleep you get is impoverished with less deep sleep and REM (Rapid Eye Movement) so you may be out for the count but without much benefit)
• Practice relaxation techniques: Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help to quiet the mind and promote relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep.
• Seek treatment for mental health issues: If you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional. Treating these conditions can help to improve sleep quality and overall mental health.
Poor sleep over time can not only lead to mental health conditions it can contribute to chronic physical health conditions too, Warren was clearly not giving good advice!
Tina Winchester Mental Health Director - Mentally Well Workplaces Principal Master MHFA Instructor.
