It’s Sleep Awareness Week

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) is educating citizens about the importance of sleep. This is Sleep Awareness Week. DHEC says that sleep is a vital indicator of overall health and well-being. Join the National Sleep Foundation in celebrating its annual Sleep Awareness Week, March 11-17. This year’s theme, “Begin with Sleep,” highlights the importance of good sleep health for individuals to best achieve their personal, family, and professional goals. To pave the way for better sleep, follow these simple yet effective healthy sleep tips. Stick to a sleep schedule, even on weekends. Practice a relaxing bedtime ritual. Exercise daily. Evaluate your bedroom to ensure ideal temperature, sound and light. Sleep on a comfortable mattress and pillows. Beware of hidden sleep stealers, like alcohol and caffeine. Turn off electronics before bed. If you or a family member are experiencing symptoms such as sleepiness during the day or when you expect to be awake and alert, snoring, leg cramps or tingling, gasping or difficulty breathing during sleep, prolonged insomnia or another symptom that is preventing you from sleeping well, you should consult your primary care physician or find a sleep professional to determine the underlying cause.