North East sleep specialist highlights impact of sleepless nights on mental health

North East sleep and wellness expert, The Mammoth Company, is highlighting the importance of sleep for our mental wellbeing as the coronavirus pandemic continues to cause sleepless nights across the UK.

The company is calling on the region to wake up to how increased levels of the ‘stress hormone’ cortisol can lead to worse sleep, which in turn perpetuates stress and anxiety.

With many studies finding that a majority of UK adults were already feeling stressed, the current situation has further impacted on mental health and wellbeing.

To help tackle the issues and get people talking about the vital role of sleep and how it can help our mental wellbeing, Mammoth is sharing its top sleep tips and offering advice via its Facebook page and website.

Mammoth has foundations in healthcare and sleep technologies and its foam mattresses are scientifically tested to improve sleep.

The company has worked with elite athletes and organisation who feel the pressure of peak performance and understand that sleep is as important to your health as eating a balanced diet and maintaining a regular exercise routine.

Sleep allows your body and brain to recover and perform essential repair work, helping you face the day and process information.

John Tuton, founder and CEO of The Mammoth Company, said: “It’s not always easy to get the sleep we need at the best of times, but in times of crisis, getting good sleep is more important than ever.

“We’re encouraging people to recognise the impact sleep has on our overall mental and physical health.

“The world has changed, but there are things we can do to help stay as fit and healthy as possible at this time.

“With our background in healthcare, we believe it’s important we share our knowledge and advice at this time to raise awareness of the link between sleep and our mental health – and ultimately aim to improve people’s sleep and recovery.”

Mammoth’s sleep ambassador, Dr Nicola Barclay, a lecturer in Sleep Medicine at Oxford University, added: “I am hearing from many people who tell me that they are struggling to get the recommended seven to eight hours a night and are kept awake by stress and worry.

“Anything that we can do to help us relax and unwind is a positive thing – particularly when the boundaries between home working and home life are much more blurred.

“Looking after ourselves has never felt more important and sleep can help support a healthy mind. Sleep deprivation on the other hand can leave you feeling irritable, exhausted and overwhelmed, making it harder to concentrate and remember things in the short term.

“Longer term, a lack of sleep can increase symptoms of common mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.

“Making positive changes to your sleep habits can help to promote a better night’s sleep, improving your health overall.

“Sticking to a regular sleep routine, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, keeping your bedroom cool and dark, and reading or meditating before bed rather than scrolling through social media can all help you sleep better and feel better.”