Sleep log

Overview
A sleep log is a record of an individual's sleeping and waking times, usually over a period of several weeks. It is used to diagnose circadian rhythm sleep disorders, and to monitor whether treatment of those disorders is successful.

Components
A sleep log usually includes:


 * 1) The time the person tried to fall asleep
 * 2) The time the person thinks they fell asleep
 * 3) The number, time, and length of any nighttime awakenings
 * 4) The time the person woke up
 * 5) The time the person got out of bed
 * 6) The time the person had wanted to wake up, before trying to fall asleep
 * 7) Whether the person woke up by themselves, by an alarm clock, or because of being disturbed
 * 8) Whether the person got out of bed by themselves, by an alarm clock, or because of being disturbed
 * 9) A few words about how the person felt during the day
 * 10) The start and end times of any daytime naps
 * 11) What, if any, medications the person was using

Data collection
Sleep logs are often hand-drawn on graph paper. Specialized software for creating sleep logs is also freely available. A spreadsheet or database software can also be used.

Sleep logs may be used in conjunction with actigraphy.