The sleep industry is thriving, with various products and services designed to help people catch more Z’s, including specialized alarm clocks, high-end mattresses, tracking devices, and supplements like melatonin. However, the real question remains: should we be investing so heavily in these solutions?
In the latest episode of the Quartz Obsession podcast, host Rocio Fabbro consults Dr. Michael Breus, a double board-certified Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Sleep Specialist, to discuss the burgeoning sleep market and its implications. Dr. Breus addresses key questions surrounding sleep, such as why the demand for sleep aids is so high, the effectiveness of these products, and the fundamental reasons we need sleep.
Dr. Breus explains that our contemporary understanding of insomnia has evolved, heavily influenced by societal changes including the advent of electricity, which disrupted traditional sleep patterns. He points out that stress is a primary contributor to insomnia, noting that environmental factors like increased screen time, alcohol consumption, and medical conditions further exacerbate sleep issues.
Fabbro shares her own experiences with the challenges of winding down at night, and Dr. Breus emphasizes the detrimental effects of engaging with devices before bed, highlighting how distractions can prevent us from achieving restful sleep.
The discussion also delves into historical sleeping patterns and cultural differences in sleep practices. For example, people historically experienced biphasic sleep, where they would wake in the night to perform tasks before returning to sleep. Dr. Breus notes that while some individuals may experience this today, such patterns have largely faded as we’ve transitioned to a more modern lifestyle.
The podcast also touches upon the relationship between mental health and sleep, underscoring the cyclical nature of insomnia and anxiety. Dr. Breus encourages listeners to focus on improving their sleep hygiene and offers practical tips such as maintaining a consistent wake-up time, limiting caffeine and alcohol intake, and incorporating physical exercise into daily routines.
In concluding remarks, Dr. Breus shares insights on the future of sleep research, including advancements in pharmaceuticals and the potential of AI technology in sleep medicine. He emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility in managing sleep health and encourages listeners to adopt healthy sleep practices.
For those seeking assistance with sleep, Dr. Breus invites them to explore strategies and resources on his website. Tune in to the full episode for a comprehensive look at the complex world of sleep and insomnia.