Red Numbers

The room is black.

Even the glowing red numbers are shelved by the neighboring nightstand. The last time curiosity won, the time was 3:24, wonder what time it is now? Was the cat fed? Mom hasn't called back yet, hope everything is OK. I can't believe I put off writing my column, again. Better work on it in the morning, if I wake up on time. Tomorrow you have to do laundry, and clean the bathrooms. They're gross. Oh shoot, when is your next Spanish exam? Cuando tu cumplianos?

Wonder what time it is....3:44.

If the thoughts inside any of your heads sound close to this at night, chances are you are suffering from insomnia. The red numbers constantly changing next to your bed could bring an intruding feeling of hopelessness and doom.





Someone who suffering from insomnia is constantly at battle, trying to balance their everyday lives while feeling irritable, cranky, and tired. One in three people suffer from some level of insomnia every year, and it is one of the most common reported health problems.

There are three different levels of insomnia. Transient insomnia doesn't last longer than a week and is most likely caused by a change of sleep schedule such as traveling or moving. Insomnia that occurs inside a month is called short-term insomnia and is caused by stress or a worry and normally sleep patterns return to normal once the issue is resolved. The third level is chronic insomnia; it lasts longer than a month and is normally due to another disease or condition. It is estimated that almost ten percent of people suffer from chronic insomnia.

Wait! There are some simple life style changes you can make to help you sleep at night.

Make sure your room is clean and comfortable. Being in an environment where you can relax will help you fall asleep faster and easier.

Make sure to use your bed for nothing other than sleep or sex.

If you find yourself worrying about everyday problems or feel overwhelmed try making a list or writing in a journal. Putting these thoughts on paper will help free your mind.

If you still find yourself restless try reading a book or a doing a low impact activity until you feel tired.

Avoid drinking alcohol, caffeine or smoking cigarettes before bed. These things are stimulants and will keep you awake.

Avoid exercise for at least four hours before bed time.

Unfortunately it is difficult for college students to keep the same sleeping schedule, but if it possible try and go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day.

There are a number of other things one could try, such as meditation or drinking chamomile tea before bed time. But if you are still having problems falling asleep or staying asleep it is time to see your doctor. As mentioned earlier chronic insomnia could be due to another disease or illness. Someone who suffers from depression or anxiety could sometimes need professional help and possibly medication. Or sometimes the doctor could just temporarily prescribe a sleep aid and this could help kick your sleep schedule back into gear.

Life can be challenging enough without having to face the day with missing sleep. With a good nights rest you will be more alert in class, retain information better and be happier. Just remember, if you find yourself staring at the red numbers in the middle of the night, your not alone.