Good "sleep hygiene" makes a real difference for most people with occasional poor sleep: a consistent bedtime and wake time, a dark, cool, quiet bedroom, avoiding screens, caffeine and heavy meals close to bedtime, and getting some daylight and activity during the day.
Persistent insomnia lasting several weeks, or snoring accompanied by daytime sleepiness, gasping or pauses in breathing during sleep (a possible sign of sleep apnoea), are both worth discussing with your GP rather than just living with — effective treatments exist for both.
See also our pages on tiredness and energy.
Common questions
What is good sleep hygiene?
A consistent bedtime and wake time, a dark, cool, quiet bedroom, and avoiding screens, caffeine and heavy meals close to bedtime.
When should snoring be checked by a GP?
If it is accompanied by daytime sleepiness, gasping or pauses in breathing during sleep, which can be a sign of sleep apnoea.