Your body needs sleep to stay healthy, support brain function, and perform at its best every day. However, with our packed schedules, countless distractions, and several biological factors we may not even know about, getting an adequate amount of sleep can be quite difficult. For those who want to improve your sleep, or struggle with getting 7-9 hours every night Health Initiatives (HI) is hosting a week-long program called SleepWell@Tech to help you get back on track.

This program runs from October 21 - 25 in various locations in the Student Center and brings awareness to the importance of sleep for your overall health and well-being. “Lack of sleep or poor sleep habits can lead to a host of negative health outcomes,” said health educator and event co-creator JaPeera Edmond. “It is important that students know what these outcomes are and how they improve their sleep, which in turn can improve their quality of life.”

The following events will take place during SleepWell@Tech Week.

But First, Sleep – Monday, October, 21st 
Healthy Space in the Student Center from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Sleep is a key building block to your success and health. Learn everything you need to know about sleep to keep you healthy, including how caffeine can impact your sleep. 

From Zzz to A's - Tuesday, October 22nd
Student Center Kiosk 4 (Next to DePoe Eye Center) from 10:00 am - 1:00pm
Don't let sleep take a back seat to your studies, sleep is essential for memory consolidation which you need to pass those exams. Learn about how sleep is key to your academic success.

The Art of the Nap - Wednesday, October 23rd
Student Center Kiosk 3 (across from Chick-Fil-A) from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
You heard naps are bad, right? Not quite, napping the RIGHT way can help you get refreshed and ready to tackle your to-do list. Learn the proper way to nap and adding it to your schedule.

Setting the Scene for Sleep - Thursday, October 25th
Student Center Kiosk 3 (across from Chick-Fil-A) from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Studying and working in your bedroom can cause restlessness and poor sleep quality. Learn about ideal bedroom conditions for sleep and make a DIY potpourri satchel.

Find Your Circadian Rhythm​​​​​​​ - Friday, October 25th
Healthy Space in the Student Center from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Fighting your body's natural rhythm is only setting yourself up to fail. Learn about circadian rhythm and kick off your day with a quick snack to keep you energized.

“The academic environment at Georgia Tech can have a negative impact on students that cause them to engage in unhealthy behaviors such as sleeping less, which can lead to increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression,” said Edmonds. “It is important that we teach students to engage in positive sleep behaviors to improve overall health and academic performance.”

For additional event information and to learn more about healthy sleep patterns go to  healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/sleep.