2024-2025 Student Resource Handbook

11 review your primary sources of stress the next day. Taking note of what difficulties are keeping you from sleeping, such as awakenings and how many hours of sleep per night you’re getting can be extremely helpful. If later you speak with your doctor, you will have specific information to share with them about your problem. Stop Trying So Hard Being overly concerned about falling asleep only adds to the stress that you are experiencing and makes it almost impossible to sleep. If you feel particularly restless, get up and go do something relaxing until you feel tired enough to go to sleep soundly, rather than tossing and turning all night long. Getting five hours of quality sleep is better than getting eight hours but constantly waking up. Sleeping tablets should be avoided, as one may become dependent on them, and even addicted. There are some non-addictive over the counter tablet brands such as Simply Sleep that can work great for an occasional solution, but should only be taken until your internal sleep clock is reset. There are plenty of Apps for smart phones and tablets to download relating to improving sleep. Relaxation Techniques Anxiety, stress, and insomnia are all partners in crime. Learn how to relax, and you will be able to get rid of all three issues. Muscle relaxation is one of these techniques. Tense up your muscles for several seconds, then relax them, to feel the difference between the two. Yoga is a fantastic way to help you clear your mind (and also stretch your muscles) through meditation. If you follow a regular exercise program you can relieve stress which will help you become tired enough to fall asleep. However, it shouldn’t be performed within two hours of when you plan on sleeping. Keep The Noise Level Down People are quite different when it comes to noise sensitivity, but in general, you’ll sleep better when your bedroom is quiet. If you have lived in a busy city then such things as, sirens, revving engines, and passing airplanes perhaps won’t wake you, but they may still be disruptive to your sleep. If you cannot eliminate noise, try to mask it with a fan, white noise, or some other soothing sounds. Earplugs are also cheap and easy to use. MARCH OF DIMES 10 Overlea Blvd. Toronto, ON M4H 1A4 Tel: 416-425-3463 Web: marchofdimes.ca FAMILY SERVICE TORONTO 202-128A Sterling Rd Toronto, ON M6R 2B7 Tel: 416-595-9618 Web: familyservicetoronto.org First Evangelical Lutheran Church We’ve got what you need Pastor Dawn Leger quiet safe space Counselling: open & honest conversation Discussion: pub nights, group study opportunities phone and hours 116 Bond Street, 416-977-4786 Monday to Thursday 10-1 Contact: facebook, twitter and instagram