Top Tips For Sleeping In Shared Housing For Students

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On the JJ Barnes Blog, as students are starting to settle into uni life, I share top tips for sleeping in shared housing so you can get the rest you need to focus on studying… and partying.

As you dive headfirst into the exciting chaos of university life, one crucial aspect often gets overlooked: sleep. Living in shared housing can be a whirlwind of noise, laughter, and late-night study sessions, making it challenging to catch those precious Z’s. Whilst the average adult needs at least seven hours of sleep per night, almost one in five (19%) students are getting less than five hours in general and 46% would rate their sleep as bad overall.

In this post, with the help of experts at memory foam mattress retailer Mattress Online, I’ll share some top tips to help you master the art of sleeping in shared housing, so you can stay refreshed, focused, and ready to conquer both your studies and your social life. Let’s dive in!

The Importance Of Student Sleep

The recommended amount of sleep for young adults (18-25) is seven to nine hours per night. Having  a lack of sleep will affect a part of the brain called the hippocampus which is key for making new memories. Evidence shows that if learners haven’t slept, their ability to absorb new things could drop by up to 40% – students are not capable of staying up all night and still be able to learn effectively.

There are positive effects of getting the recommended amount of sleep. You will feel fresh and ready for the day, as well as have normal reflexes and quicker responses. It will improve your memory rete​​ntion, overall performance and help manage your emotions or any feelings of stress. Also a big one for students, your immunity will massively improve as sleep helps fight off illnesses which is great when you are mixing with so many people on a daily basis.

–Dr. Hana Patel, NHS GP and GP Medico-Legal Expert Witness

Top Tips For Sleeping In Shared Housing For Students

DO – Communicate compassionately

Living in shared accommodation can be a fantastic experience, but it’s essential to establish clear communication and boundaries to ensure everyone gets the sleep they need. Open and honest conversations about sleep habits, evening routines, and shared expectations can go a long way in creating a harmonious living environment.

Key Considerations:

Compromise and Flexibility: Be willing to compromise and adapt to changing circumstances. Remember, flexibility and understanding are key to maintaining a positive living environment.

Respectful Communication: Be mindful of your words and tone when discussing sleep-related topics. Avoid making assumptions or accusations. Instead, focus on expressing your needs and preferences calmly and respectfully.

Understanding Individual Needs: Everyone has different sleep requirements. Be open to understanding your housemates’ preferences, whether they’re early birds or night owls.

Creating Shared Guidelines: Work together to establish guidelines that benefit everyone. This might include setting quiet hours, agreeing on noise levels, or designating specific study or relaxation areas.

DON’T – Invite friends round at unsociable hours

While moving to university and sharing a home with new friends can be an exciting adventure, it’s crucial to treat your housemates with respect and consideration. This will help foster a positive and harmonious living environment throughout the year.

One common area of potential conflict is bringing guests over. While it’s natural to want to socialize with friends and loved ones, it’s important to be mindful of your housemates’ needs and routines. Always communicate with them before inviting others over, especially if you plan to visit at unsociable hours. This shows respect for their privacy and helps prevent disruptions to their sleep.

By prioritizing open communication, understanding your housemates’ boundaries, and being considerate of their needs, you can create a living situation that is enjoyable for everyone involved.

DO – Invest in high-quality sleep accessories

Student accommodation can often be noisy and lack the privacy and comfort you need for a restful sleep. However, with a few simple additions, you can transform your room into a peaceful oasis.

Key Purchases:

Ear Plugs: High-quality noise reducing earplugs can significantly reduce noise levels, allowing you to tune out distractions and enjoy a more peaceful sleep.

Blackout Masks: Block out unwanted light with a blackout mask and create a dark, relaxing environment, even in well-lit hallways or shared spaces.

Mattress Topper: A high-quality mattress topper can add an extra layer of comfort and support, helping you achieve a deeper and more restful sleep.

DON’T – Ignore your dorm neighbours entirely

While it’s tempting to retreat into your own world when living in shared accommodation, building relationships with your housemates can significantly improve your overall experience. Socializing not only helps combat loneliness and anxiety but also creates a strong support network.

By getting to know your flatmates, neighbors, and roommates, you can establish open communication and express your needs. This includes explaining the importance of a stable sleep schedule and requesting their cooperation during quiet hours. By fostering a sense of community and mutual respect, you can create a more harmonious and enjoyable living environment.

DO – Prioritise a night time routine

Establishing a consistent sleep schedule is crucial for optimizing your sleep quality. Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body’s internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up refreshed.  

Before bed, engage in calming activities to prepare your body for rest. A warm shower can help relax your muscles and induce drowsiness. As you step out of the shower, your body temperature will naturally drop, signaling to your brain that it’s time to wind down.

To promote relaxation, choose activities that are enjoyable and low-stimulating. Consider watching a lighthearted comedy, reading a relaxing book, or listening to soothing music. Avoid engaging in activities that are stressful, suspenseful, or emotionally arousing, such as watching horror movies or the news, as these can interfere with your ability to fall asleep.

DON’T – Stay awake on screens

Screens can be a significant obstacle to a restful night’s sleep, especially in shared living environments. The bright light emitted by screens can disrupt your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, making it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. Additionally, the content displayed on screens can stimulate your brain, making it harder to relax and wind down.

If you rely on screens for evening activities like listening to music, audiobooks, or meditation, it’s essential to adjust the settings to night mode. This reduces the blue light emitted, which can help regulate your sleep hormones and improve sleep quality. Alternatively, a good quality bear of blue light blocking glasses will achieve the same results.

To create a more conducive sleep environment, consider turning off screens at least an hour before bedtime. This will give your brain time to wind down and prepare for rest. If you must use screens, opt for activities that are calming and relaxing, such as listening to soothing music or reading a book.

DO – Create a homely environment

Moving to university often marks a significant transition, filled with both excitement and a sense of longing for loved ones. Homesickness is a common experience, but there are several strategies to help you cope.

Create a Familiar Space:

• Decorate with Personal Touches: Surround yourself with reminders of home by displaying photos, souvenirs, or favorite items.
• Bring Familiar Scents: Use the same laundry detergent or air freshener as you did at home to create a comforting and familiar scent.

Stay Connected:

• Maintain Regular Communication: Make time for regular phone calls, video chats, or letters with friends and family.
• Share Experiences: Keep your loved ones updated on your life at university, sharing both the challenges and the joys.

Build a New Support Network:

• Connect with Other Students: Seek out opportunities to connect with fellow students who may be experiencing similar emotions.
• Get Involved in Campus Activities: Join clubs, societies, or sports teams to meet new people and make friends.

DON’T – Lay in bed if you aren’t tired

If you find yourself tossing and turning for more than 20 minutes, it’s often helpful to get out of bed and engage in a relaxing activity. This could involve meditation, reading, or gentle yoga. These activities can help calm your mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep.

It’s essential to remember that your bed should be associated solely with sleep. Avoid using your bed for activities other than sleeping, such as watching TV, working, or eating. This helps train your brain to recognize the bed as a place for rest and relaxation.

In shared accommodation, it may be tempting to retreat to your bed for activities other than sleep. However, try to avoid this by eating meals in communal areas, using a designated desk or table for studying, and limiting your time in bed to sleep. By following these practices, you can improve your sleep quality and feel more rested throughout the day.

Sweet Dreams and Successful Studies

By implementing these tips, you can create a more conducive sleep environment in your shared housing and enjoy the benefits of a restful night’s sleep. Remember, prioritizing sleep is essential for both your physical and mental well-being, allowing you to focus on your studies and make the most of your university experience.

So, whether you’re a seasoned napper or struggling to catch those precious Z’s, these tips will help you optimize your sleep and wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day.