In recognition of Stress Awareness Month, we're featuring stories on the impact of stress on your wellbeing and healthy ways to manage stress.
Not getting a good night’s sleep goes beyond being cranky the next day, it makes managing stress difficult.
The science behind sleep and stress
A 2022 study delved into the connection between stress and sleeplessness. It found common stressors often lead to sleep problems.
Isaac Fuller, QMHA, Case Manager for Enhanced Adult Mental Health Services, says hormones play a big part in regulating sleep. “Melatonin is a hormone, made from serotonin and produced in the pineal gland, that helps us to fall asleep,” he explains. Stress hormones fight against melatonin. These disruptions affect the healing sleep offers.
An ongoing lack of sleep can make mental health issues worse, as well as contribute to low energy. Physical problems can also result, such as headaches and digestive issues, Isaac says.
When is it time to get help for sleep concerns?
Isaac suggests seeking help when experiencing poor sleep in combination with any other symptoms. It’s also a good idea when disrupted sleep is making day-to-day life too challenging.
Healthy eating, vitamins, yoga, exercise, and therapy can all help, says Isaac. He adds that everyone needs to find their own path to better rest.
"There are so many treatments for stress, not a one size fits all," he says. "It’s about figuring out what works best for each individual.”
If you need support managing stress, LifeWorks NW can help. Call 503-546-9010 or complete our intake form to get connected with caring, knowledgeable professionals, like Isaac.
LEARN MORE
- The relationship between stress and insomnia, Birch, Advanced Biology, 2022
- About sleep, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Sleepless nights? Try stress relief techniques, Johns Hopkins Medicine
- Cognitive shuffling: A mental trick to help you sleep, CNN
