Sleep hygiene
Sleep hygiene
The four pillars:
Health issues impairing sleep may be self-evident, such as a blocked nose, and the pharmacy team can provide advice and recommendations on medication and devices that may help, as well as identifying those requiring a referral for a more in-depth assessment.
Environments for sleeping should be free of distractions, such as electronics, and have the correct level of light, noise and temperature for the individual.
Attitude refers to worries that may block someone’s ability to sleep. Progressive relaxation techniques can help, such as those available through the Calm website and app, and mindfulness cognitive behavioural therapy.
Lifestyle changes can make a significant difference – from reducing caffeine, alcohol and sugar intake, particularly later in the day, to getting regular exercise.
It can be difficult for patients to take in such a large amount of information, so pharmacy teams may want to signpost them to the Every Mind Matters section of the NHS website. Keeping a sleep diary (a template may be useful) is often a good first step in terms of identifying modifiable issues as well as symptoms.