Of course, worrying about not sleeping will only exacerbate the problem and instead of a healthy circadian rhythm it will create a cycle of sleep deprivation and the anxiousness associated with racing thoughts and restlessness. This has the knock-on effect for the following day on how you function mentally, emotionally and physically.

The importance of good quality sleep should not be underrated, without it you are at higher risk for diabetes, heart attack and stroke amongst others. Vital functions occur when you sleep leaving you feel rested and energised, improves your memory and reduces inflammation and boosts your immune system.

There are a lot of things we can implement to help address sleep and anxiety issues.

Exercising regularly - especially outdoors, avoiding caffeine, alcohol and lots of fluids before bedtime. Keep your bedroom dark and cool and avoid having any “blue light” from phones and tablets in the room. Reading, listening to music and relaxing in a hot bath or deep breathing before bed are all good ways of slowing the body down.

For those who prefer a licenced herbal sleep tonic, Irish Botanica have Peace & Calm. This is a valerian product with warming oils which create a warming sensation in the body without the taste usually associated with it. Peace & Calm is a medicinal product used for the temporary relief of symptoms of mild stress and to aid sleep, exclusively based on long standing use.

Always consult your doctor if you’re on other medication and if you suffer from chronic insomnia.