By Kirstye Todd, Dispex Tutor
NEW FEATURE: Dispex’s Wellbeing Series
Our new series hopes to provide actionable insights and tools to foster a thriving workplace
environment. By investing time into your wellbeing and that of your team, you’re not just
boosting morale-you’re empowering everyone to perform at their best every day. Join the
growing number of practices that are prioritising wellbeing and seeing the difference it
makes. Elevate your practice with Dispex’s Wellbeing Series today!
Tackling Insomnia and Sleep Issues:
Insomnia and sleep issues are prevalent problems that affect millions of people, including
healthcare professionals. In dispensing practices, the impact of inadequate sleep can be
significant, leading to decreased performance, increased stress, and compromised patient
care. Understanding the effects of sleep issues and adopting practical strategies to manage
them is crucial for maintaining a healthy and productive dispensary.
Some sleep facts:
Sleep requirement: Adults typically need 7-9 hours of sleep per night to function optimally.
However, many people fall short of this requirement due to various factors.
Economic impact:
Sleep deprivation costs the UK economy up to £40 billion a year due
to reduced productivity and increased healthcare costs.
Health risks:
Chronic sleep deprivation is linked to a higher risk of serious health conditions, including
heart disease, diabetes, and depression.
Workplace accidents: Employees suffering from sleep issues are at a higher risk of
workplace accidents and injuries, highlighting the importance of adequate rest.
The impact of Insomnia on your work
Insomnia, characterised by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restorative sleep,
can have far-reaching consequences.
Here are some key effects of insomnia on your work:
- Reduced cognitive function: Lack of sleep impairs concentration, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities, essential skills for dispensers.
- Increased errors: Sleep-deprived individuals are more prone to making mistakes, which can be particularly critical in the dispensary where accuracy is vital.
- Decreased productivity: Fatigue and reduced energy levels lead to lower productivity and efficiency, impacting the overall performance of the dispensary.
- Emotional instability: Chronic sleep deprivation can result in mood swings, irritability, and increased stress, affecting interactions with colleagues and patients.
Practical tips for managing sleep issues Addressing sleep issues requires a combination of lifestyle adjustments and practical strategies.
Here are some effective tips for improving sleep quality…
- Establish a routine: Maintain a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body’s internal clock.
- Create a sleep-friendly environment: Ensure your bedroom is conducive to sleep. This includes a comfortable mattress, minimal light exposure, and a cool, quiet atmosphere.
- Limit screen time: Avoid screens from phones, tablets, and computers at least an hour before bedtime. The blue light emitted by these devices can interfere with the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep.
- Mind your diet: Avoid large meals, caffeine, and alcohol close to bedtime. These can disrupt sleep patterns and affect the quality of sleep.
- Physical activity: Regular physical activity can promote better sleep. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days, but avoid vigorous activity close to bedtime.
- Relaxation techniques: Incorporate relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga before bed. These can help calm the mind and prepare the body for sleep.
- Seek professional help: If sleep issues persist, it may be beneficial to consult your GP. Cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is an effective treatment for chronic sleep problems.
Supporting your staff with sleep issues
As a practice, there are steps you can take to support staff experiencing sleep issues:
- Promote awareness: Educate staff about the importance of sleep and the impact of insomnia on health and work performance.
- Encourage breaks: Ensure staff take regular breaks during their shifts to rest and recharge.
- Provide resources: Share information about sleep hygiene practices and available support services, such as counselling.
Addressing insomnia and sleep issues is essential for maintaining the wellbeing and performance of
dispensing practice teams. By understanding the impact of sleep deprivation and adopting practical
strategies to improve sleep, we can create a healthier, more productive work environment.
Let’s prioritise sleep health and support our teams in achieving better rest, ultimately enhancing the
quality of care provided to our patients.
Catch Up
JUNE– Navigating Perimenopause in the workplace (pg 6 & 7)
MAY – Work-Life Harmony (pg 11)
