As the hustle and bustle of the day comes to a close and the calm of night begins to sink in, our bodies are programmed to seek rest and rejuvenation. The image of a peaceful sleeping environment – a cozy bed, soft pillows, and a warm blanket – evokes a sense of calmness and tranquility. Yet, for many of us, a restful night’s sleep remains elusive.
Sleep is a crucial component of overall health. A lack of sleep can have a wide range of negative effects on both our physical and mental health. During sleep, the body performs important functions such as repairing and rejuvenating cells, consolidating memories, and regulating hormones. Without adequate sleep, the body can become more susceptible to chronic health conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
Sleep also plays an important role in cognitive function, affecting everything from memory, attention to detail, and problem-solving. Sleep deprivation has been shown to impair these functions, making it more difficult to focus and perform daily tasks.
Sleep deprivation has been shown to increase levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which can negatively impact overall health and well-being. In addition, the link between sleep and mental health has been well-documented. Numerous studies demonstrate the link between poor sleep and mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. Individuals who experience poor sleep are more likely to suffer from these conditions.
At Marlboro Drug Company, we understand the importance of sleep for our patients overall health and well-being. Although many people choose not to prioritize sleep, often sacrificing it for work or play, millions find themselves unable to fall asleep naturally. Instead of slipping into a restful slumber, they find themselves tossing and turning all night long. There are several common sleep disorders that might affect these individuals, including insomnia, sleep apnea, or restless leg syndrome. However, in the absence of a diagnosed medical condition, most people can find relief by implementing a few of the following techniques to improve their sleep:
Maintain a regular sleep schedule: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. Avoid long daytime naps that can disrupt bedtime sleep.
Manage stress: Stress and anxiety can interfere with sleep, so create a bedtime routine that involves stress-reducing techniques to prepare for sleep. This could involve reading a book, meditating, practicing deep-breathing exercises, or taking a warm bath.
Create a calm environment: Ensure that the bedroom is cool, dark, and quiet. Use comfortable bedding and pillows to enhance comfort.
Avoid caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol: These substances can disrupt sleep patterns and make it more difficult to fall asleep.
Limit electronics: Eliminate electronics from the bedroom. Avoid looking at a cellphone or watching television right before bedtime.
At Marlboro Drug Company, we offer several over the counter sleep aids to assist our patients with achieving short-term sleep relief. If you are in need of assistance, ask our pharmacists about melatonin and Zzzquil the next time you come into our pharmacy. If you continue to experience difficulty sleeping, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider to discuss your unique situation and treatment options. Good sleep habits can improve your overall health and well-being, so we want to encourage you to prioritize your sleep today.