The lucrative sleep industry is thriving, with a plethora of products such as high-tech sleep gadgets, luxury mattresses, and melatonin subscriptions catering to consumers eager to improve their rest. But experts question whether such investments truly lead to better sleep quality.
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 delve deeper into sleep’s significance and the science behind it. The discussion highlights several critical inquiries surrounding sleep, including:
Why has the demand for sleep-related products surged?
Do these products actually contribute to restful sleep?
What biological and psychological functions does sleep serve?
What processes occur in our minds and bodies during sleep?
Dr. Breus points out that insomnia is increasingly prevalent in today’s fast-paced society, often linked to rising stress levels and modern distractions. He explains that prior to the industrial revolution, sleep issues were not widespread. The advent of artificial light allowed for extended waking hours and altered the natural sleep cycle, leading to more sleep disorders.
He emphasizes that environmental factors and lifestyle choices—such as excessive screen time and late-night consumption of alcohol or cannabis—contribute significantly to insomnia. Moreover, Dr. Breus notes that medical conditions can also adversely affect sleep quality.
The conversation shifts to practical approaches for overcoming insomnia, addressing habits like the use of mobile devices before bedtime. Dr. Breus categorizes late-night scrolling as detrimental, advising listeners to avoid engaging activities late at night that can raise stimulation levels.
Dr. Breus, with a unique background that combines clinical psychology and sleep medicine, discusses how this blend informs his approach to treatment, which focuses on understanding the psychological ramifications of insomnia in addition to its biological underpinnings. He explains the importance of identifying individual chronotypes—genetic dispositions that dictate sleep preferences—which can be pivotal for tailoring effective sleep strategies.
Listeners are encouraged to adopt straightforward strategies for better sleep, such as maintaining a consistent wake-up time and managing caffeine and alcohol consumption. Dr. Breus believes that increasing awareness and understanding of one’s unique sleep patterns can lead to significant improvements in sleep quality and overall well-being.
To further explore this topic, Dr. Breus invites audiences to engage with tools like the Chronotype Quiz on his website, which can help individuals identify the best times for them to sleep, rise, and perform daily activities based on their natural rhythms.
As society continues to grapple with sleep-related issues, Dr. Breus remains optimistic about advancements in sleep research, pharmaceutical developments, and innovative approaches to understanding and enhancing sleep quality. Ultimately, he asserts the importance of personal responsibility in implementing healthy sleep habits while acknowledging the intricate biological, environmental, and psychological factors at play.