Lack of sleep can lead to a variety of problems during the day, including an inability to focus and be productive, an increase in the risk of an accident and an increase in stress. Not being able to get the sleep you need can also be frustrating, which is why it’s time to figure out what’s keeping you awake so you can take steps to get the rest you crave.
Your Productivity and Performance are Slipping
Lack of adequate rest plays a big role in your productivity during the day. If you find that you aren’t getting as much done as you used to or your performance isn’t quite as keen as you’re used to seeing, adjust your bedtime and see if it helps. When you don’t enough rest, your judgment can be off too, which can lead to making the wrong decisions at work and in your daily life. Sleep deprivation has also been linked to higher rates of distraction, keeping you from getting things done during the day.
You’re Getting Drowsy During the Day
There’s nothing worse than feeling tired and drowsy during the day. If you’re not used to feeling like that, it’s clear indication that you aren’t getting enough sleep at night. Being drowsy when you’re used to being alert increases the risk of car accidents, falls and other mistakes that could be dangerous so it’s important to try to get to bed earlier so you’re awake and ready to go when you need to be.
You’re Gaining Weight
Being overweight is associated with sleep apnea, which is when you repeatedly stop breathing for short intervals when you’re lying down. Clearly this will wake you up several times at night and could make you afraid to fall asleep. Being overweight can also make it hard to find a comfortable sleeping position. Additionally, weight gain can lead to aches and pains in your body. Finding the best mattress for back pain is one step you can take, but taking the weight off can help you return to normal sleeping patterns and keep you healthier at the same time.
Your Libido’s Flagging
If you’re not feeling as amorous toward your significant other as you used to, sleep problems could be to blame. When your body is tired and worn out, it can make it difficult to rouse the feelings that intimacy creates and you may rather just go to sleep. Studies also show that lack of proper sleep lowers sex drive hormones, including testosterone, which can make it hard to get in the mood. Lack of physical closeness can harm your relationship so it pays to get to the root of the problem so you can get back to normal.
You’re Not Looking Your Best
The purpose of sleep is re-enervate and rejuvenate the body, so it follows that if you aren’t getting enough sleep, your looks will suffer. Lack of sleep can show in your face with dark circles and bags under your eyes, as well as your eyes looking dull, or even red. Your skin and hair can be lifeless as a result of lack of sleep as new collagen, elastin and keratin is not being given sufficient time to regenerate.
You’re not at your best when you’re tired, which is reason enough to get to bed earlier, but your health will improve and you’ll be happier too, which makes adequate rest that much more important.