World Sleep Day: encouraging a good night’s sleep

Posted: 18/03/2021

On 19 March 2021, the World Sleep Society is hosting World Sleep Day – an international day of awareness to advocate the importance of healthy sleeping habits for both physical and mental wellbeing.

World Sleep Day, which is supported by healthcare professionals and welfare providers, aims to encourage the public to consider the importance of sleep, whilst also providing guidance and information for those who may be suffering from sleep problems. Studies have shown that 40% of adults in the UK suffer from sleep issues; the current estimate of individuals living with insomnia worldwide is around two billion.

The benefits of a good night’s sleep have been the subject of extensive research, and the World Sleep Society has found that sleep deprivation can lead to a reduction in working memory, a diminished ability to learn and retain information, and an increase in risk taking. Poor sleep has also been linked to a heightened risk of obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, low immunity and chronic illness.

There are many reasons why some individuals might be having difficulty sleeping, including stress, emotional trauma or genetic make-up. Whilst most sleep disorders are preventable or treatable with simple exercises and lifestyle adjustments, some sleeping difficulties can occur as a result of injury or disability. Living with a long-term physical illness can cause feelings of anger, anxiety or depression, which in turn can affect quality of sleep. Being in pain can also interfere with the ability to sleep, and certain medications can have side-effects that cause sleep disturbances.

Of the clients represented by the Penningtons Manches Cooper clinical negligence team, many of those who experience ongoing sleep problems do so as a result of undergoing medical treatment for an existing illness. For example, those who have suffered an injury to their urinary system may need to wake several times in the night, which results in a disruptive sleep pattern and an overall reduction in health and wellbeing. For those currently receiving chemotherapy treatment, a common side effect of this is difficulty sleeping and waking often at night. Lack of sleep can in turn lead to a weakened immune system and lower energy levels, which can hamper recovery and lead to other associated problems. It is therefore essential that healthcare providers in the UK are aware of the importance of education in facilitating better sleep both for those receiving treatment and for those in a period of recovery.

There are a number of options available to anyone who is experiencing sleep difficulties. Simple behavioural alterations can have a significant impact on the quality and duration of sleep; for example, maintaining regular sleeping patterns can programme the brain and internal body clock to get used to a set routine. Practising good ‘sleep hygiene’ can also be beneficial. Experts recommend avoiding using smartphones or electronic devices for at least an hour before bed, as the light can trick the brain into thinking it is daytime. Ensuring a sleeping area is a comfortable temperature, well ventilated and free from light or noise pollution as far as is possible can also help with creating an environment that is conducive to a good night’s sleep. Alternatively, talking therapies or medications can provide support in returning to a healthy sleep cycle, and are options that should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

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