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15th May 2025

Mental Health Advice for Sleeping
by Kiran Shukle

Sleep and mental health are closely linked—when one suffers, the other often follows. Whether you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or simply restless, a good night’s sleep can feel just out of reach. At Mattresses365, we understand how important quality rest is for both your physical and emotional well-being.

In this blog, we’ll share practical, supportive mental health tips to help you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and wake up feeling more balanced and refreshed.

Create a Calming Bedtime Routine

Just like children benefit from a set bedtime routine, adults do too. Establishing a predictable wind-down ritual signals to your brain that it’s time to relax. This could include:

  • Turning off screens at least 30 minutes before bed
  • Listening to calming music or a sleep podcast
  • Reading a few pages of a book
  • Practising gentle stretches or breathing exercises

Consistency is key. Try going to bed and waking up at the same time every day—even on weekends.

Journal Before Bed

Racing thoughts and unresolved worries can prevent you from drifting off. Consider keeping a journal on your nightstand. Spend five to ten minutes writing about your day, expressing gratitude, or simply jotting down your to-do list for tomorrow. Offloading thoughts from your mind onto paper can help reduce nighttime anxiety.

Reduce Stimulants and Screen Time

Caffeine, nicotine, and blue light exposure can all interfere with your ability to relax. Aim to:

  • Avoid caffeine after 2pm
  • Switch to herbal teas in the evening
  • Limit phone, tablet, and TV use before bed

Instead, opt for screen-free activities or use blue light filters on your devices to minimise disruption to your body’s natural sleep rhythm.

Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment

Your bedroom should be a sanctuary. For better sleep and mental clarity, try to:

  • Keep your room dark, cool, and quiet
  • Invest in a supportive mattress and quality bedding
  • Use blackout curtains or an eye mask
  • Reduce clutter for a more peaceful vibe

Our collection at Mattresses365 offers a variety of beds and mattresses designed to support your comfort and well-being.

Try Mindfulness and Breathing Techniques

Mindfulness exercises help bring your focus away from anxious thoughts and into the present moment. Try this simple breathing method as you lie in bed:

  1. Breathe in for a count of four
  2. Hold for four
  3. Exhale for four
  4. Pause for four

Repeat this “box breathing” cycle a few times to help relax your nervous system and prepare your mind for sleep.

Don’t Stay in Bed Awake

If you find yourself tossing and turning, don’t force sleep. Instead, get up and do something calming—read a book, sip herbal tea, or listen to soft music. Return to bed only when you feel sleepy. This helps your brain associate your bed with rest rather than stress.

Know When to Seek Support

If sleep struggles persist and start impacting your daily life, it may be time to speak with a healthcare professional. Mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, or PTSD can all affect sleep patterns—but with the right support, improvement is possible.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to your GP, a therapist, or a sleep specialist if needed. You're not alone.

Make Sleep a Priority

Improving your sleep isn’t just about feeling rested—it’s a vital part of supporting your mental health. By making small but consistent changes to your bedtime routine, lifestyle, and environment, you can enjoy more peaceful nights and brighter mornings.

Your mind and body will thank you.