If you can’t sleep, you’re not alone. Millions of people around the world face this issue every night. Statistics in the UK show that around 30% of the population struggles with sleep, and one in ten people suffer from true insomnia.
If you’re someone who struggles with sleep, you’ve probably seen countless tips online to try to fall asleep again. You may have also tried common advice such as drinking herbal tea, practicing yoga, meditating, or investing in expensive sleep aids. However, the real solution always seems just out of reach, while you continue to toss and turn every night.
Insomnia is more than just fatigue
Insomnia is a stressful experience, especially when you feel powerless against sleep. It doesn’t just mean being unable to sleep—it affects every aspect of life:
- Physical: Increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
- Psychological: Leads to anxiety, depression, and reduced focus.
- Social: Limits your ability to engage in favorite activities, socialize with friends, or even enjoy family vacations.
Why Can’t You Sleep?
Some life events—such as moving house, work stress, or the grief of losing a loved one—can cause acute insomnia. This is a natural response, and it usually improves once the situation settles.
However, when insomnia lasts for at least three months, occurring most nights of the week, it may have developed into chronic insomnia. At this point, the issue is no longer just stress, but also habits and misconceptions:
- Pressure to sleep: Becoming too focused on sleep can increase stress and worsen the condition.
- Negative thoughts: Worries like “I’m going to have another terrible night” prevent you from relaxing enough to fall asleep.
Why Sleep is Important?
Sleep is a foundational element of overall health. It affects:
- Immune function: Helps the body fight illness.
- Brain function: Enhances memory, focus, and emotional stability.
- Metabolism: Regulates energy and supports metabolic function.
Every time you miss sleep, your body becomes gradually depleted and suffers long-term damage. So, this is not a minor issue but a condition that needs serious attention.
Expert Advice
Many people visit doctors and receive familiar advice:
- Eat a banana before bed.
- Turn off your phone and electronic devices.
- Take a relaxing bath.
- Take sleeping pills.
However, for those with chronic insomnia, this advice often isn’t effective. Some people feel discouraged and give up on finding a solution. The good news is that insomnia is treatable.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBTI) is one of the proven methods for treating insomnia. CBTI helps change the thoughts and habits that negatively impact sleep. This not only improves sleep quality but also helps you build a more balanced lifestyle.
New Hope for Sleep Issues
Insomnia is a real medical condition that requires serious treatment. With the help of specialists and scientific methods, I believe things can get better.
If you’re also struggling with sleep, remember:
- You are not alone.
- There is hope for restful nights.
- Seek out professionals and the right therapies to reclaim your sleep and improve your quality of life.
This content is summarized from the video Insomnia: Why Can’t I Sleep? on the Guardian’s YouTube channel with nearly 2.3 million subscribers.