Are you currently enrolled in the online masters in political science degree program at George Washington University? Do you find yourself swamped with school work, personal things, and even a job during the day, only to find yourself exhausted by the end of the day but unable to sleep? Insomnia is something that can affect any person at any time and can start to take a toll on your physical and mental well-being.

If you’re having a hard time getting and staying asleep then you’ll want to check out these top ten ways to deal with insomnia.

Understand You Aren’t Alone

One of the first things people need to do is understand they aren’t alone in suffering from insomnia. There is no need to feel isolated with this problem, as many people suffer from it.

Don’t Push Aside Daytime Worries

Stress and worry that occurs during the day can definitely roll over into the evening hours and keep you awake. It’s a good idea to start getting into the habit of dealing with it as it happens, during the day, so that it can’t keep you up at night.

Start to Include “Quiet Time” in Your Routine

If you’re the type that is always on the go and never seems to have down time, this can make it hard for your body to unwind at the end of the day. Try to find points during the day, especially in the later part of the day, where you aren’t quite as active and you start to quiet your mind and body down.

Avoid Stimulants after Lunch

Many people can have that afternoon cup of coffee and not have it affect their sleep. If you suffer from insomnia, however, caffeine or any type of stimulant isn’t a good idea after noon. As well, you will want to skip on the alcoholic beverages within three hours of your bedtime.

Set a Routine

Just as you would set a routine for a child to ensure they get enough sleep, the same should be done for you. Set a bedtime and stick to it each night.

Create a Cool and Dark Sleeping Environment

It’s a proven fact that people tend to sleep much better if their room is dark and cool. It’s better to bundle up in blankets then be too hot.

Take the TV Out of your Bedroom

Electronics are never a good idea for the bedroom if you suffer from insomnia. They act as a stimulant and distraction.

Engage in Meditation before Bed

Meditation before bed is a wonderful way to calm your body and mind and prepare you for a restful sleep.

Cut Out Napping

Resist the urge to fit in a nap in the afternoon. Obviously, you are tired if you’re suffering from insomnia, but even that quick afternoon nap can mess with your ability to sleep at night.

Read a Book before Bed

Read a couple of pages or chapters in a book before bed. This is much more relaxing than watching TV before bed.

Finding the Method that Works

Once you are able to find that method, or perhaps combination of methods that allows you to rest better at night, you’ll be more focused during the day so you can concentrate on such things as your online political science masters programs.