The economic climate, being what it is, an increasing number of Americans are taking on more work, in terms of a second job or a job with odd timings to make ends meet.
This results in a lack of sleep for a person, which may cause problems ranging from depression and memory problems, to increased risk of accidents, cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Many of them overwork due to second jobs and extra shifts that they take on, resulting in inadequate sleep. Changing jobs is not usually an option in situations like this; rather Dr. Raman Malhotra, an assistant professor of neurology and director of the Sleep Disorders Center at Saint Louis University, suggests other ways to combat lack of sleep:
- Make sure that the blinds are properly closed if going to sleep during the day. Reduce light exposure before sleeping so that the brain is not confused.
- Wear sunglasses on the way home from work.
- Before starting work, be in a well lit room to give your brain the signal of being awake or daytime.
- Ask friends and family to be mindful of your sleep schedule.
- Consider seeing a specialist if sleep problems continue.
