sleep

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How to get a good night’s sleep – watch our new WebTV show!


How to get a good night's sleep

How to get a good night’s sleep

Log into our live and interactive WebTV show where sleep expert Kathleen McGrath and former athlete Roger Black MBE discuss the importance of a good night’s kip and give top tips on finally getting a good night’s sleep

Show date: Thursday 26th February
Show time: 2pm

Fatigue can make us irritable and grumpy, reduce productivity levels, increase our anxiety levels, lead to weight increase as we eat to counter a lack of energy as well as weakening our immune system as our sleepless nights build up.

So for those of us failing to get the recommended eight hours a night – our work, mood and relationships can all start to suffer. Yet as a nation, are we undervaluing the importance of good quality sleep?

The effects of sleep deprivation cannot be ignored. A whole host of things can contribute to us becoming a shattered nation from our home and work life to the general busyness of our 24/7 society.
At the end of a working day, do you struggle to switch off from the pressures of daily life? Log into our live and interactive WebTV show, where Kathleen McGrath will tell you about simple things you can do to improve your night’s sleep.


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Getting rid of depression. Some natural lifestyle changes to help get rid of depression.


As anyone who has ever suffered from depression will tell you recovery can take a long time.   We

https://patienttalk.org/?p=874

https://patienttalk.org/?p=874

thought we would share a few ideas for tackling depression that do not involve medications.

It is worth mentioning that it is always a good idea to map out a journey from depression with a healthcare professional.   It is worth noting that the ideas below are complimentary rather than an alternative to more conventional treatments such as medication or counselling.

1)      Exercise.  As you may know exercise releases endorphins in the body which in turn makes you feel better.  Maybe try swimming or just go for a run.

2)      Get organised.  A regular routine can help you break out of some of the listlessness which can be caused by depression

3)      Diet.  Yes really.  Fish is particular recommended especially ones high in omega 3 oils such as salmon.  https://patienttalk.org/?p=917.  You feel better after a salad than a burger!

4)      Get outside.  Not just for exercise.  Regular exposure to sunlight means raised Vitamin D levels which helps improve your mood.  You can read up on it here https://patienttalk.org/?p=300

5)      Improve your sleep patterns.  Get eight hours plus a night can really help your mood.  Maybe go to bed a few hours earlier or even try a restful camomile tea.

These are just a few simple ideas.  Can you add to them?

It would be great if you could use the comments box below to add your thoughts and ideas as to lifestyle changes which can help beat the blues!

PS  You may find our previous blog on St John’s Wort of interest https://patienttalk.org/?p=874


6 Comments Posted on Patient Talk

Insomnia busting. Some great tips to help you get more and better sleep

Insomnia busting

Insomnia busting

It has been estimated that nearly 1 in 8 people suffer from insomnia at any one time. The tiredness it can cause has ramifications through the life of the person suffering from insomnia. Insomnia is defined as lack sleep or in some cases poor quality sleep.

In today’s blog we would love to share some top tips to help you deal with insomnia.

• Getting rid of stress. For some ideas here why not check out our previous blog on beating stress (https://patienttalk.org/?p=229)
• Stop drinking coffee after lunch. Why not take up herbal tea?


• Have a regular bed time and bed time routine. Studies show that a regular bed time improves your sleep and eliminates insomnia.


• Don’t watch TV just before going to sleep!


• How about a relaxation CD before dropping off to sleep?


• Make sure your bed is as comfortable as possible. You might even consider a new mattress!


• Why not invest in some earplugs to help eliminate irritating background noise!


• Some people find going to the Doctor and getting prescribed medications help to improve their sleeping patterns.

How about you?

Our readers would love to hear how you treat your insomnia. Why not share your tips in the comment box below!

4 Comments Posted on Patient Talk

10 great ways to beat stress

Modern life seems full work stress especially in today’s uncertain economic climate.  That is why stressbusterPatientTalk.Org is bringing you ten great ways to help you eliminate stress from your life.

a)      Eat blueberries.  True!  The Vitamin C is a great stress buster as well as being an all-round super food.  How about a bowl with your breakfast!

b)      Get down to the gym.  Exercise is not just good for your health it can kick stress’s butt!  Why not give yoga or pilates a whirl?

c)       More sleep.  What not get into bed an hour earlier?

d)      Laugh more.  Why not rent a great comedy or just spend time with friends and family outside!

e)      Meditation.  Getting recommended by Doctors at lot!

f)       Try massage.  A great way to get those muscles loose.

g)      Dogs.  Combine exercise and friendship with a dog.     Why not get a dog from a shelter and give it a good home?

h)      Counselling.  If things are getting on top of you why not seek a professional who can help!

i)        Cut out alcohol and tobacco.  While they may work in the short term they can add to your stress with regular use!

j)        Herbal tea!  Why not switch your coffee for camomile tea and see if it helps your stress?

Do you have any stress busters you use which we have not mentioned here?  If so please tell us about them using the comment box below?  If you have tried any of the above ideas why not let us know how they work.