Links to further information:
http://www.healthnavigator.org.nz/health-topics/sleep/
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 interfere 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.
| Sleep Quizzes | Tips for getting a good night's sleep | Videos about sleep & common sleep problems |
Useful Factsheets |
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Common sleep problems (13 languages) |
Overview
Here you will find information about sleep, how common sleep problems are and tips for sleeping well.
 | Sleep Apnoea | NHS Choices | |
 | Sleep disorders - Insomnia | FamilyDoctor.org | |
| American, however useful videos | |||
| Sleep changes in older adults | FamilyDoctor.org | |
| From the American Academy of Family Physicians | |||
| What is insomnia? | Best Health - UK | |
| Sleep Disorders |  | |
What can I do? - Self help measures
If you or a loved one has problems sleeping, have a look at these ideas.
| How did you Sleep? | ||
| 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 | |||
| Improve your Sleep | ||
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 Health - UK | |
| Sleep problems in children | Best Health - UK | |
| What treatments work for insomnia? | Best Health - UK | |
| Sleep Apnoea Association of NZ (SAANZ) | ||
| support groups & newsletter for members | |||
| 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 | ||
Date last reviewed