THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024

Events

Mental Health Tips – Sleep Hygiene 

Sleep is like the golden chain that binds our health and body together. – Thomas Dekker 

One thing that can often be overlooked when we are trying to take care of ourselves is getting appropriate and healthy sleep. Your behaviors during the day, and especially before bedtime, can have a major impact on your sleep. They can promote healthy sleep or contribute to sleeplessness. Your daily routines – what you eat and drink, the medications you take, how you schedule your days and how you spend your evenings – can significantly impact your quality of sleep. Even small adjustments can mean the difference between sound sleep and a restless night. The term “sleep hygiene” refers to a series of healthy sleep habits that can improve your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep. Here are some tips to help with getting better sleep:   

• Keep a consistent sleep schedule – get up at the same time every day, even on weekends or during vacations. 
• Set a bedtime that is early enough for you to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep. 
• If you don’t fall asleep after 20 minutes, get out of bed. Go do a quiet activity without a lot of light exposure and avoiding electronics. 
• Establish a relaxing bedtime routine. 
• Use your bed ONLY for sleep. 
• Make your bedroom quiet and relaxing. 
• Limit exposure to bright light in the evenings. 
• Turn off electronic devices at least 30 minutes before bedtime. 
• Don’t eat a large meal before bedtime – if you are hungry, eat a light snack. 
• Avoid eating caffeine in the afternoon or evening, and avoid alcohol before bedtime. 

UW-Stout Student Counseling Center  

410 Bowman Hall (Clocktower Building)  

Office: 715-232-2468   Hours: 8AM-4:30PM  

• We are currently providing both in person and telehealth services for Stout students.  As always, these sessions are confidential and at no additional cost to enrolled students. You can schedule an appointment by calling the above office number, or schedule online at  www.uwstout.edu/counseling. 
• Check out our Student Counseling Center website, Facebook page (UW-Stout Student Counseling Center), and Instagram (@uwstoutstudentcounselingcenter) for more information on ways to have a great semester.   
• Emergency and Crisis Resources: Call 911 if you are experiencing an emergency. Other mental health crisis options that are available 24/7 include:  
  • Northwest Connections: 1-888-552-6642 (local area, Western WI)  
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call or Text 988  
  • Crisis Text Line: text hello to 741741