Healthy Surrey:

Healthy Surrey

Sleep

Sleep is a key part of maintaining good mental and physical health. This page contains tips, resources and information to help improve sleep.

Last updated: 10 September 2024

Contents

Sleep is essential for good health for people of all ages. Just like exercise, a healthy meal or some fresh air, a good night's sleep can make us feel healthier. Lack of sleep can make us feel tired, irritable or affect our ability to do certain tasks.

Everyone needs different amounts of sleep, but you should usually feel refreshed and not sleepy during the daytime.

Dreaming of a good night's sleepThe things that affect our sleep differ for everyone. They can include: stresses or worries; life events (such as being a new parent); problems with where you sleep; work related factors such as shift work; health conditions (known as sleep disorders) or mental or physical health problems; taking medication; drugs or alcohol.

The occasional night without sleep will make you feel tired the next day, but it won't affect your health. However, after many sleepless nights there might be an increased risk of chronic conditions and it might be dangerous if operating heavy machinery or driving.

How to improve your sleep

There are many small changes we can make to get a better night's sleep. These small changes are also known as 'sleep hygiene' and even if you are not experiencing issues with insomnia, sleep hygiene is something we should all aim for each night.

Tips for a good night's sleep

If you're struggling with your sleep

If you are experiencing problems with sleep, there is additional help available in Surrey. You can self-refer to Talking Therapies, who offer support for sleep. This can be either through an online platform called Silvercloud, or through one-to-one or group sessions. They offer an evidence-based programme called cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia to support people to identify worries, stress factors or thoughts that might contribute to sleep problems.

Slivercloud uses interactive videos, quizzes, and other materials to create associations that support good sleep. You can self-refer to the NHS Talking Therapy providers below:

If you try these and you still can't sleep, you should contact your GP. You can talk over any problems that may be interfering with your sleep. Your doctor can check that your sleeplessness is not due to a physical illness, a prescribed medicine, or emotional problems.

Useful contacts

  • More information on sleep and tips on how to sleep well can be found at Every Mind Matters
  • The Mind website provides information on how to cope with sleep problems
  • The Sleep Foundation provides sleep hygiene tips to do during the day and during the night to improve sleep
  • The Royal College of Psychiatrists website provides information on sleeping well. They include information on how to get help and tips on how to help yourself.

Related articles