The lucrative market surrounding sleep has expanded rapidly, with products like high-tech alarm clocks, luxury mattresses, sleep-tracking devices, and melatonin subscriptions making waves. But as insomnia rates rise, a crucial question lingers: should we be investing so heavily in promoting better sleep?
In the eighth season finale of the Quartz Obsession podcast, host Rocio Fabbro consults a sleep specialist, Dr. Michael Breus, known for his expertise in insomnia and sleep medicine. Together, they delve into several pressing questions about sleep: Why is there such a huge market for sleep-related products? Can these items genuinely improve our rest? Why do we need sleep? What occurs in our bodies and minds during sleep?
Dr. Breus shares insights about the evolution of insomnia and how societal changes have impacted our sleep patterns. He explains that prior to the industrial revolution, sleep disorders were largely unrecognized, but the onset of electric lighting altered natural sleep rhythms. The increase in work hours and late-night activities has contributed to mounting levels of insomnia, mainly driven by stress and anxiety. He estimates that around 75% of insomnia cases stem from stress and mental health issues, while environmental factors, such as increased screen time and alcohol consumption, comprise the remainder.
Additionally, Dr. Breus emphasizes the importance of understanding personal sleep patterns, referred to as chronotypes, which dictate whether someone is an early bird or a night owl. He suggests that embracing one’s biological predisposition can lead to better sleep quality.
Listeners can explore tips for improving sleep quality, including regular wake-up times, limiting caffeine and alcohol intake, and engaging in daily exercise. Dr. Breus also points out the importance of creating a sleep-conducive environment, specifically advising against using phones before bed because of their engaging content and blue light emission.
As the conversation unfolds, it becomes evident that chronic insomnia can have serious physical and mental health consequences, often exacerbating existing mental health issues. Dr. Breus highlights the necessity of seeking knowledge about sleep habits and the potential for therapy and lifestyle changes to lead to improved sleep patterns.
With a wealth of information on sleep and its importance, the podcast draws attention to the ongoing research in sleep medicine, including advancements in drug therapies for insomnia and the application of AI in sleep analysis. Dr. Breus leaves listeners with a compelling message: by understanding and respecting our natural sleep needs, we can significantly enhance our quality of rest and, by extension, our overall well-being.