THE 4-STEP TEST TO SEE IF YOU’RE GETTING ENOUGH

IF you’re not getting enough sleep, you usually know about it.

But, for a more objective measure of how sleepdeprived you are, try the Sleep Onset Latency Test, developed by a famous sleep researcher, Professor Nathaniel Kleitman from the University of Chicago. You’ll need a metal spoon and metal tray.

1. SKIP your morning coffee or tea.

2. IN the early afternoon – any time between 1pm and 3pm – go to your bedroom and draw the curtains, taking the spoon and tray.

3. PLACE the tray on the floor by your bed, check the time then hang your arm over the side of the bed, holding the spoon.

4. CLOSE your eyes and try to drift off. If you fall asleep, the spoon will drop from your fingers with a loud clang, waking you up. Check the time as soon as that happens.

If you fall asleep within five minutes of closing your eyes, it means you are severely sleepdeprived.

Taking ten to 15 minutes suggests a mild problem.

If you’re awake for more than 15 minutes, you’re probably fine.