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A good night’s sleep might not solve all of life’s problems… but it definitely helps!

Sleep: it has the power to make or break us. You take it for granted when you’re getting a full eight hours every night, but start to crumble when your REM sleep is lacking. Absolutely no one has time for mood shifts or a fuzzy mind… but that’s how some people are going through their days, daydreaming about when their heads will hit that glorious pillow — only to be faced with yet another night of broken sleep.

Our friends at Star Discount Chemist are able to offer advice and solutions to support your sleep. Their friendly pharmacists will do their best to help you get back on the dream train! Because it’s such a widespread issue, we asked Phoebe from Star Discount Chemist Firle for her top tips on solving your sleep situations:

Phoebe, Star Discount Chemist, Firle

What are some of the most common issues people face with their sleep?

Sleep is a crucial component of our overall health. Some of the troubles that people are faced with include insomnia (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep), sleep deprivation (not getting enough sleep regularly), sleep disorders (like sleep apnoea or restless leg syndrome) and irregular sleep-wake cycles (inconsistent patterns of sleeping and waking).

What issues can arise if you have a lack of sleep?

Besides an overall feeling of exhaustion, not getting enough sleep can lead to impaired cognitive function and memory issues, a weakened immune system, increased risk of chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes, and mood swings and irritability. All things we want to avoid!

How much sleep should the average person be having every night?

Generally, we recommend that adults get between seven and nine hours per night. It varies more in children of different ages — for example, preschoolers need 10–13 hours in a 24-hour period (including naps), and teens are recommended to get 8–10 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period.

What are some more natural ways to treat insomnia?

Try establishing a consistent bedtime routine and sleep schedule, complete with activities that help you wind down. We also recommend that you limit your screen time right before bed to avoid blue light interference, exercise regularly (but not too close to bedtime) and set yourself up in a room that’s dark, quiet and cool, with no distractions like a TV. You can also spend some time on mindfulness techniques such as yoga or meditation, or try switching out caffeine and alcohol for herbal remedies like chamomile tea.

What products do you recommend to assist people with their sleep?

The biggie is that your mattress and pillows are supportive and comfortable. You use these every day and they play a significant role in your sleep — so it’s worth investing in high quality. White noise machines and sleep trackers to help monitor your sleep patterns are also good tools for excellent sleep.

What is sleep apnoea and how is it treated?

Sleep apnoea is a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep due to blocked airways. Symptoms include loud snoring, gasping for air and daytime sleepiness. The CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine is an excellent way to combat sleep apnoea, as it aids in keeping your airways open. Other simple changes you can make include weight loss, avoiding alcohol and quitting smoking. For severe cases, surgery can be recommended by your doctor. Sleep Apnoea services are available at Star Discount Chemist Firle and Sturt Street, Mount Gambier.

If you’re reading this article with droopy eyelids, pop in and see your local pharmacist at Star Discount Chemist for further information and advice on getting a good night’s rest. And remember: quality sleep isn’t a luxury, but a necessity for a healthy life.

Instagram: @stardiscountchemist

Website: stardiscountchemist.com.au

Millie Looker

Writer, Content Creator, Events Manager and Operations sensation, she’s the backbone to ensuring Adelady runs like clockwork.