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How a sleep diary can transform how you feel

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Are you one of the 3 in 10 U.S. adults who don't get enough sleep?

If you are, here's some unexpected advice: Dust off your diary.

To learn what's keeping you up at night and robbing your resiliency, do a little reflection (on paper) for about two weeks. You may be surprised by what you learn.

Here is what to track in your "sleep diary."

  • The time you went to bed
  • The time you actually fell asleep, if known
  • How many times you woke up during the night
  • How long, each time, it took you to fall back asleep
  • The time you woke up in the morning
  • How many naps you took that day, and how long each lasted
  • The medications you used
  • How much caffeine or alcohol you drank

Reviewing this information on your own may reveal some unexpected sleep barriers. Reviewing your diary with a doctor will help you work together to improve your sleep habits and boost your overall health and resiliency.

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