A guide to improving your sleep

Sleep problems are very common and are often referred to as insomnia.

Having trouble sleeping at some point in your life is quite normal. People can become very distressed if they think that they are not getting a good night's sleep which can then make it harder to get off to sleep but it is important to remember there is no right amount of sleep as this varies between people and across the lifespan. It is also possible to think that you have a sleep problem when in fact you are still getting enough sleep but it is different from what you expect.

Sleep problems can occur for a number of reasons such as stress, jet lag, a health condition, the medications you take or even the amount of coffee or alcohol you drink, as well as unhelpful surroundings or routines.

Problems sleeping can also be caused by other sleep disorders or emotional states such as anxiety and depression.

How you can help yourself

The Mental Health Foundation Podcast on Wellbeing and Sleep is presented by Dr David Peters and is intended to be listened to in bed.

It can help you relax and get ready to go to sleep.

If you are concerned that you cannot keep yourself safe then please do ask for help.

Further information

Useful reading

Downloads

What we can do to help

Student Services offers a range of support that includes Wellbeing Advisors, Counsellors, and the Mental Health Advisory Service. To access any of these services contact the Student Advice and Guidance team. This is the entry point to speak to the Wellbeing Advisors, Counsellors, and the Mental Health Advisory Service and all our services are confidential.You can email the team on advice@liverpool.ac.uk, or call 0151 795 1000 between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday.