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Who else is worn out from feeling perpetually exhausted over the past year and a half? Before the pandemic, insomnia was already a challenge for many. But with the world facing unprecedented upheaval, it has created the ideal conditions for sleepless nights. This isn’t just a few restless evenings; it’s a relentless, draining battle. The anxiety spirals into thoughts at 2:00 a.m., becoming a part of our nightly routine. Struggling to fall asleep or waking up in the middle of the night has become our new reality. Yet, there’s nothing normal about it—our bodies crave sleep as much as we need oxygen.
I recall early March 2020, when every store I subscribed to began sending emails about closing locations. Everything shifted to pick-up only. While intended to bring reassurance, it only heightened our anxiety. I spent countless hours obsessively scrolling through news about Covid.
At the pandemic’s onset, many (looking at you, politicians) claimed Covid would be under control in a matter of months. Who could forget the line about how it would “die with the hotter weather in April”? But we knew differently, and that’s when the quality and quantity of our sleep began to plummet. Those who once complained about insomnia due to missing a single night of sleep have now come face to face with the harsh reality of chronic insomnia. So, why are so many of us struggling with insomnia now? More importantly, what can we do to alleviate it?
How the Pandemic Fuels Insomnia
It’s a vicious cycle. During the day, you’re anxious about breathing in someone else’s Covid droplets while at work. Or perhaps you’re at home, worrying about your kids at school and the potential risk of them interacting with asymptomatic individuals. These fears are valid. If they don’t keep you up, then you’re one of the lucky few. For many, these anxieties invade our thoughts and prevent restful sleep. A study from the University of Southampton revealed that the rate of insomnia has surged from one in six to one in four since the pandemic began. This dramatic increase signals a significant issue—we can’t keep living like this.
Sleep deprivation isn’t solely due to anxiety; the demands on our time have shifted dramatically. With kids home from school and work hours stretching to accommodate their schedules, our precious “me-time” has dwindled. Millions lost their jobs, forcing them to juggle gig work around parenting. It’s no wonder we find ourselves sleeping less and less.
Moreover, the lack of sleep can exacerbate mental health issues like depression. The irony? Our worries about Covid can lead to insomnia, but poor sleep can weaken our immune systems, increasing our vulnerability to the virus. According to Vox.com, “Chronic fatigue could jeopardize our health—especially as Covid-19 persists.” It’s a troubling cycle. But don’t lose hope; there are ways to improve our sleep quality and combat insomnia.
Strategies for Better Rest
While bubble baths and naps are enjoyable, they won’t resolve our insomnia issues entirely. Nonetheless, self-care is crucial. Whether it’s taking a mental health day or using over-the-counter sleep aids to support your natural sleep cycle, every little bit helps. Interestingly, melatonin use surged by over 40% in 2020—a clear indication of the widespread sleep challenges we face. However, sometimes that’s not enough.
If you regularly struggle to fall or stay asleep, consult your primary care physician. They may suggest over-the-counter sleep aids or even prescribe medications. Often, therapy is recommended to address the anxieties keeping you awake at night. Unfortunately, not everyone has access to therapy resources, and systemic inequalities in healthcare mean that many who need help can’t find it.
Employers have started recognizing these challenges, offering more flexible work arrangements. After all, we are adults who can manage our time effectively. If we can complete our tasks in less time, allowing for a power nap should hardly be an issue. Insomnia and other mental health struggles reflect deeper societal problems that need addressing. It’s time to build a new normal that promotes well-being, leaving behind the sleepless nights of the past.
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Summary:
The pandemic has led to a significant increase in insomnia, affecting many individuals as anxiety and lifestyle changes disrupt sleep patterns. While self-care practices can help, consulting healthcare professionals may be necessary for persistent issues. Employers are recognizing the need for flexible schedules to support mental health. It’s crucial to address these problems to create a healthier future.