How Sleep Affects Your Overall Health | Hear from a GP

"Poor sleep can lead to insomnia, anxiety, tiredness, and reduced effectiveness during the day," says Dr. Mahdavi. Our Medical Dee Why

If sleep troubles have become a constant in your life, it may be time to assess how they’re affecting your health—and consider seeking professional advice.

The Importance of Sleep for Overall Health

Sleep plays a vital role in maintaining balance in the body. It helps regulate hormones, repair tissues, and consolidate memories. Lack of quality sleep can increase the risk of chronic health conditions, such as:

• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Depression and anxiety

Sleep deprivation also impacts cognitive function, reducing concentration and decision-making skills. Over time, the effects can ripple through all aspects of life, including relationships, work, and personal well-being.

How Much Sleep Do You Really Need?

Dr. Mahdavi emphasises that the amount of sleep required varies by age and individual needs:

"Younger people need more hours of sleep per night, whereas middle-aged and older individuals typically require fewer hours. However, for most people, it’s between 6-10 hours per night."

He adds that getting less than six hours of sleep consistently is cause for concern:

"If you’re regularly sleeping less than six hours, you should try to change your sleeping patterns to avoid long-term effects on your health."

Tips to Improve Your Sleep Quality

For those struggling to achieve restful sleep, small adjustments to your routine can make a big difference.Dr. Mahdavi recommends these strategies:

• Limit alcohol and caffeine: These substances can interfere with your ability to fall and stay asleep.

• Manage chronic conditions: Sleep difficulties may be tied to underlying health issues, such as pain or breathing disorders.

• Create a quiet, relaxing bedroom environment: A cool, dark, and screen-free bedroom promotes restful sleep.

• Eliminate screens before bed: Exposure to blue light from phones and TVs can disrupt your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle.

Consistency is key. Establishing a regular bedtime routine can help signal to your body that it’s time to wind down.

When to Seek Help

If lifestyle changes aren’t improving your sleep, it might be time to seek professional advice. Chronic sleep issues can indicate underlying problems, such as insomnia, sleep apnea, or restless legs syndrome.

"Addressing sleep problems early can prevent more serious health issues down the line," says Dr. Mahdavi.

Our Sage Telehealth makes it easy to consult a GP from the comfort of your home. If needed, a GP can assess your symptoms and refer you to a sleep specialist for further evaluation and treatment.

Ready to Prioritise Your Sleep?

Your health starts with a good night’s sleep. If you’re struggling with sleep-related issues, connect with one of our experienced GPs via telehealth today. A referral to a sleep specialist might be the first step toward better sleep.