08/31/2026
Anyone who has tossed and turned while trying to get some shut-eye knows that a poor night’s sleep makes the next day tough to get through. Thankfully, Columbia Psychiatry confirms what we have felt ourselves- a lack of sleep makes it harder to process information, think critically, and pay attention.
Knowing that running low on sleep can lead to high stress, fatigue, and mental clumsiness, what can we do about it?
-Set a bedtime
This may mean catching up on your favorite show the next day, or rearranging your nighttime schedule. Just like you set an alarm to wake up, set an alarm 7 hours before to remind yourself that it is time to sleep.
-Reduce screen time before bed
If you fall asleep with your TV on, it is time to break the habit! Watching a show, playing a game, or scrolling through social media could actually delay the natural release of melatonin- our body’s way to naturally sleep soundly.
-Eat healthy foods
By regularly eating a balanced diet of three meals a day can help your body perform its best. That includes your sleep! Eating too late in the evening or drinking caffeine will have a negative impact on your sleep.
-Exercise regularly
A fitness routine will help naturally regulate your hormones and burn energy. This will help keep your circadian rhythm, or your body clock, on time. However, a workout too close to bedtime will actually keep you awake, so plan ahead!
