As many as 50 to 70 million Americans chronically suffer from a disorder of sleep and wakefulness, hindering daily functioning and adversely affecting their health and longevity.

The cumulative effects of sleep loss and sleep disorders represent an under-recognized public health problem and have been associated with a wide range of health consequences including an increased risk of hypertension diabetes, obesity, depression, heart attack, and stroke.

* Almost 20 percent of all serious car crash injuries in the general population are associated with driver sleepiness.

* Hundreds of billions of dollars a year are spent on direct medical costs related to sleep disorders such as doctor visits, hospital services, prescriptions, and over-the-counter medications.

Yikes! Here are a few ideas for getting good sleep every night:
    * Avoid working out too hard before retiring; it may keep you too keyed up.

    * Say no to caffeine at least six hours before retiring and alcohol altogether if you’re interested in having good sleep that night. Alcohol, in particular, is sleep disrupting. Yes, you’ll fall asleep quickly, but invariably you’ll arise too early. Then, you’ll likely have trouble getting back to sleep.

    * If the spirit moves you, drink a glass of milk before you sleep. It can help.

    * Go to sleep when you’re tired, not because the clock happens to say a particular time.

    * Let the people around you know when you want quiet because you are going to sleep!