Tips on how to get better sleep

CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) - Daylight savings time begins this weekend when we turn our clocks ahead an hour. 22news is working for you with tips on how to sleep better no matter the time or season.

Feeling tired, crabby and just plain worn out? Perhaps the problem was a lousy night's sleep.

Getting enough sleep was the talk at Holyoke Medical Center Wednesday night at a forum on just how much sleep you need to stay healthy, and the signs and treatment of common sleep disorders.

According to Dr. Sivakumar Padmanabhan of the Holyoke Medical Center, "If sleep apnea is not diagnosed or treated then it can lead to other problems."

A chronic lack of sleep can increase the risk for obesity, diabetes, heart disease and other illnesses. 

If you're struggling to get enough sleep here are some tips to help you get your zzzz. 

Though it might be tough, try to stick to a sleep schedule. Go to bed and get up the same time everyday, even on weekends. This reinforces your body's sleep-wake cycle. 

Try not to drink anything with caffeine or alcohol too close to bedtime or this may disrupt your sleep. 

Consider starting a relaxing bedtime routine, such as taking a warm bath or shower, reading a book or listening to soothing music. 

If you nap during the day try to limit it to no more than 30 minutes or you may have trouble falling asleep later that evening. 

Regular exercise can help you fall asleep faster and may promote deeper sleep. 

And try to manage your stress so you can wind down at the end of the day. 

If your trouble sleeping isn't just an occasional occurrence, you should consider seeing your doctor.