Research has shown that there is a close connection between stress and sleep.

For some of you this can feel like a vicious cycle.

“Stress leads to a loss of sleep and a loss of sleep leads to an increase in stress,” writes Sherrie Bourg Carter in PsychologyToday.com.
 
An estimated 1 in 2 Canadian adults have trouble going to sleep or staying asleep. And while there are a number of factors related to bad sleep, stress is one of the leading causes.
 
Many of you are facing an abundance of competing pressures like never before – adapting to new teaching and learning technologies, managing protocols in schools, balancing life/work priorities, and the list goes on. 
 
There’s no doubt these are stressful and challenging times.
 
But it’s important to understand that good sleep is not just a luxury, it’s a necessity.
 
Sleep plays a critical role in our mental and physical health. It’s when our bodies have a chance to recharge. So, how much sleep do you need to feel recharged? Well, that’s up to you.
 
Experts recommend that you look at your individual needs, lifestyle and habits. The right amount of sleep for you may be different than for others. Try seeing what’s right for you by how you react to different amounts of sleep – how’s your mood and energy after six hours of sleep versus seven or eight. This can be a good indicator of how much sleep you need. 
 
To help you get a better night’s sleep, here are some tips¹:

• Avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol before bed
• Keep your bedtime and waketime regular
• Stay active by exercising regularly
• Practice relaxation and mindfulness techniques

Don’t forget that you have control. Stress may be inevitable, but you can control how you approach and deal with stressful situations.
 
If you continue to struggle with feelings of stress and bad sleep, contact your health-care provider or local public health unit for mental health resources and support.
  
You can check your benefits booklet or RTIP contract to see which service providers are covered by your plan to support your mental health.

We're here to help

For group benefits member: If you need more information, that is not already covered in your benefits booklet or online, contact OTIP Benefits Services at 1‑866‑783‑6847.

For RTIP members: If you have questions, please contact the RTIP Contact Centre by emailing planchangesandbilling@rtip.otip.com or calling 1-833-318-2811, Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. (ET).
 
This article is part of the Caring for your mental well-being campaign. Visit otip.com/wellbeing for more information on the campaign and upcoming activities.
 
Related article: Feeling stressed and anxious? You are not alone