Sleep
Sleep is one of those essential activities we simply have to do. In fact, we spend nearly one third of our life sleeping, however for some people, getting enough sleep is a major issue. Nearly everyone has difficulty getting to sleep from time to time, but when this is ongoing, it can really interfer with day to day functioning and affect your health.
Key Points:
- Most adults need between 7 to 8 hours of sleep a day
- If you have trouble sleeping, follow the sleep tips below.
- Excessive daytime sleepiness is not normal or healthy. See your doctor.
- Weight gain and getting older are two risk factors for developing obstructive sleep apnoea. (OSA)
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, smoking, and excessive exercise before bedtime.
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Tips for getting a good night’s sleep |
Videos about sleep & common sleep problem |
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Overview
Here you will find information about sleep, how common sleep problems are and tips for sleeping well.
 | Sleep Apnoea | NHS Choices | |
| Sleep disorders - 17 short videos | FamilyDoctor.org | |
| American, however useful videos | |||
 | Sleep changes in older adults | FamilyDoctor.org | |
| From the American Academy of Family Physicians | |||
| What is insomnia? | Best Treatments | |
| Zzzzs & weight |  | |
| Sleep Disorders | | |
Treatments & Medication
Treatment for sleep problems varies depending on the underlying issue. If simple, self-help measures have not helped, then do go see your doctor and check it out properly.
| Melatonin - what is it and does it help sleep problems? | FamilyDoctor.org | |
| From the American Academy of Family Physicians | |||
| Children - Treatments for children who don't sleep enough | Best Treatments | |
| Sleep problems in children | Best Treatments | |
| What treatments work for insomnia? | Best Treatments | |
What can I do? - Self help measures
If you or a loved one has problems sleeping, have a look at these ideas.
 | How to get a good night's sleep | Here to Help | 4 pages |
| useful Canadian handout | |||
| Sleep Skills Diary | Here to Help | |
| useful chart to help you put the sleep tips into practice | |||
| Children - Sleep for Kids website | ||
| Fun website with games, puzzles and stories to help children with sleep problems | |||
| The Sleep/Wake Research Centre - Massey University | ||
| Common sleep problems | Health Information Translations | |
| over 12 languages including Chinese, Arabic, Hindi, Russian, Somali, Vietnamese | Multiple Languages | ||
| Sleep Apnoea Association of NZ (SAANZ) | ||
| support groups & newsletter for members | |||