COLUMBIA, S.C. — As many adjust to losing an hour of sleep due to daylight saving time, Prisma Health says most people aren't sleeping enough.
"It changes over your lifespan how much sleep you need, but on average most adults need 8 hours of sleep," said Dr. Antoinette Williams Rutherford, a sleep medicine physician at Prisma Health.
Despite the recommendation, many struggle to achieve the recommended amount of sleep.
"I get about 7-8 hours of sleep," said Columbia resident Beq Randle.
"I would say I probably get about 6-7 hours of sleep a night," added Sophia Mandell who also lives in the city.
Others don't get as much.
"On average, without me waking up, maybe 5 hours of sleep," said Tzima Brown, who spoke to News19 Monday afternoon.
To improve sleep quality, Prisma Health suggests creating a conducive environment in the bedroom. "Making it so you don't have the cell phone going off, your laptop for work. You shouldn't have the computer, the treadmill, kids toys when you walk into your bedroom. It should be nice, calm, and relaxing," Dr. Rutherford suggested.
As many people navigate not being able to sleep, there are different methods people find that help.
"I'm an avid meditator, meditation is something I do before bed," said Randle.
"I've realized the best thing is little rain noises. I like those playlists," Mandell added.
If lifestyle changes do not improve sleep quality, individuals are urged to consult their primary care doctor.
"The first thing is making sure that you have a great environment," Dr. Rutherford explained. "The things we talked about making sure that your room is optimal and you make it a priority, setting a bedtime, and things, as I've mentioned, temperature... even when you're eating can affect how your sleeping, so making sure the timing of eating and exercise is right because all of those things are important with sleep."
Prisma Health also recommended avoiding stimulants like caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine before bedtime to promote better sleep.