Trouble Staying Asleep

What should I do when I wake up in the middle of the night or wake up too early in the morning?

If you can’t go back to sleep within 10-15 minutes, get out of bed. Go to another room and sit in the dark or do an activity in dim light. After  20 minutes, go back to bed.

*  Read a book, magazine, or newspaper.

*  Knit, crochet, braid yarn, or practice tying knots.

*  Sit in dim, not bright, light.

*  Work on jigsaw or crosswords puzzles or play cards.

*  Avoid using a computer, tablet, or smartphone screen. The light from the screen can make you feel alert.

Create a basket of items to prepare for times you may wake up during the night. This can include a big sweater, blanket, slippers, a book, or other items that are listed above. If you can’t fall back asleep after 10-15 minutes, take the basket to another room and do one of your activities.

Do not associate your bed with being awake.