Sleeping Smart

America, It's Time to Get "Sleep Smart"!

Phyllis Zee, MD, PhD, Associate Director, Center for Sleep & Circadian Biology; Professor, Northwestern University Institute for Neuroscience; National Sleep Foundation Board Member

"I am Doctor Phyllis Zee, a Professor of Neurology and Director of the Sleep Disorder Center at Northwestern University Medical School. I am also a member of the Board of Directors of the National Sleep Foundation, and a member of the Sleeping Smart Faculty."

What is insomnia?

"Insomnia is difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early and not being able to get back to sleep. Millions of Americans suffer from chronic sleep disorders, therefore it is crucial to speak to your healthcare professional regarding your chronic sleep difficulties, and take action to control your sleepless nights."

"Know, recognize, act, realize, and own."
Know, Recognize, Act, Realize, Own

"It is important to know that insomnia is more than just difficulty falling asleep, it is also having difficulty staying asleep through the night."

"Recognize that insomnia can have an effect on everyday life, such as relationships, work productivity, overall health and wellbeing."

"Take action - you don't have to keep struggling with trying to fall asleep and stay asleep. There are many things that you can actually do to help you get a good night's sleep, such as, lifestyle changes, relaxation techniques, and if needed, prescription medications."

"Realize that feeling great starts with a good night's sleep. Talk to your healthcare professional about ways to adopt healthy sleep behaviors and manage your sleep problems."

"Own and prioritize your sleep - know the appropriate way to use a sleep aid. Read the prescribing information carefully, and take only as directed."

What is the "Sleeping Smart" Campaign?

"Too many people are suffering from sleepless nights, and not enough understand the importance of getting a good night's sleep."

"The Sleeping Smart Campaign was designed to educate sleep sufferers about the importance of getting a good night's sleep, and to understand the consequences of insomnia, and to motivate the sleep sufferers to talk to their healthcare professional about the appropriate action to improve their sleep."

"It is crucial that people who take prescription sleep medications know how to use them safely and appropriately."

"This website was launched to provide you with helpful educational materials and campaign information to help you sleep smart."

"Sleep, like exercise and nutrition, is essential for good health and general well being. Make Sleeping Smart a priority."

"Thank you for taking the time to start sleeping smart."

Sleeping Smart is a collaborative effort between NSF and sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC.