The sudden freedom you have when you become a student could lead you to develop some negative habits. One in particular is not maintaining a healthy sleep routine. It’s often tempting to stay out late because you want to attend social events. You may also be working late shifts at your part-time job. The problem is it’s also common to have early classes throughout the week, which may mean you’re unable to sleep enough. Over time, this may lead to stress, decreased academic performance, and mental health problems. The good news is most students suffer the same challenges, and there are simple solutions to address all of them.

The Challenges to Sleeping Well at University

Likely the biggest contributor to poor quality sleep among students is their overuse of technology. Many students find it difficult to put away their phones and tablets until right before they go to sleep. The problem with this is the blue light that screens emit disrupts their circadian rhythms, making it harder for them to fall asleep.
Another major factor is stress about academics. If you’re worried about your classes or feel like you’re not gaining the grades you want, you may struggle to sleep due to spiraling thoughts. When you do sleep, you may suffer from bad dreams.

Solutions to Improve Your Sleep

The first thing you need to do to improve your sleep is stay away from screens for at least an hour before bedtime. Find other activities to help you wind down, such as reading a paperback book or working on an art project.

Another way to improve your sleep is to incorporate meditation into your daily routine. This is a great activity to do right before bedtime because it will help to relax you and it doesn’t involve looking at a screen. If you want to do guided meditations, look for an app — there are free options as well as paid subscriptions (often with student discounts available) if you want more variety.

You may also like to use essential oils. Choose a scent that is known to benefit sleep and that you find pleasant. Some top options include lavender, cedarwood, and chamomile. Either put the oil in a diffuser (perhaps at the same time as you start your meditation practice) or add a few drops to your pillow. Over time, you’ll associate the scent with sleep, which will help you fall asleep faster.

Lastly, make your bedroom somewhere you’re able to relax. Dim the lights before bedtime and play some soothing sounds, such as white noise or nature recordings. Make your bed as welcoming as possible with high-quality pillows and a comforter.

It’s easier to sleep when you at least have comfortable student accommodation. Ottawa students can find an apartment that suits their lifestyle and budget at THEO. We have one-bedroom apartments for students who want complete privacy, private rooms in shared apartments for those who want roommates, and shared rooms in shared apartments for the greatest savings. Apply now to secure the type of room you want — there’s only a limited number of each floor plan.