Sleep aid treatments are designed to help you sleep easier, sleep for longer and improve the quality of your sleep.

You have insomnia if you regularly:

• find it hard to go to sleep
• wake up several times during the night
• lie awake at night
• wake up early and cannot go back to sleep
• still feel tired after waking up
• find it hard to nap during the day even though you’re tired
• feel tired and irritable during the day
• find it difficult to concentrate during the day because you’re tired

If you have insomnia for a short time (less than 3 months) it’s called short-term insomnia.

Insomnia that lasts 3 months or longer is called long-term insomnia.

How much sleep do you need?

Every individual will require different amounts of sleep. Generally on average, adults need around 7-9 hours of sleep.

What causes insomnia?

Insomnia can be caused by a range of different factors. The most common causes are:

• Stress, anxiety or depression
• Alcohol, caffeine or nicotine
• Noise
• A too hot or cold room
• Uncomfortable beds
• Recreational drugs like cocaine or ecstasy
• Jet lag
• Shift work

What are some tips to help insomnia?

Insomnia can get better by changing your sleeping habits. You should try to:

• Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day
• Aim to relax at least 1 hour before bed, for example, take a bath or read a book
• Make sure your bedroom is dark and quiet – it is helpful to use curtains, blinds, an eye mask or ear plugs if needed
• Try to exercise regularly during the day
• Make sure your bed, mattress, pillows and covers are comfortable

What should you try to avoid?

There are some things that may make sleep worse. You should try to avoid:

• Smoking or drinking alcohol, tea or coffee at least 6 hours before going to bed
• Eating a big meal late at night
• Exercising at least 4 hours before bed
• Watching television or use devices, like smartphones, right before going to bed
• Having a nap during the day
• Driving when you feel sleepy
• Sleeping in after a bad night’s sleep

What treatments do we offer to help aid sleep?

We offer a natural herbal product called Nytol Herbal Tablets which is available to buy through our website.

There are other treatment options that may be available through your GP or a suitable healthcare professional.

You should always see your GP and seek medical advice if you are suffering from insomnia or are experiencing difficulty sleeping.

When should you see your GP or doctor?

You should see your GP and seek professional advice and help if you are suffering from insomnia or are experiencing difficulties sleeping, especially if:

• Changing your sleeping habits has not worked
• You have had trouble sleeping for months
• Your insomnia is affecting your daily life in a way that makes it hard for you to cope