There is significant financial potential in the sleep industry, from sunrise alarm clocks and high-end mattresses to REM-tracking devices and regular deliveries of melatonin. However, experts question whether it is wise to invest so heavily in these products to improve our sleep.
In the concluding episode of Season 8, the show invites a sleep doctor to address critical questions about sleep that many are grappling with. The discussion explores the reasons behind the expansive market for sleep products and questions the effectiveness of these items in truly enhancing sleep quality. It also delves into the necessity of sleep, along with the physiological and neurological processes that occur during dreams.
Dr. Michael Breus, a clinical psychologist and sleep specialist, joins Rocio Fabbro, Quartz’s staff writer and podcast host, to give insights into insomnia, its prevalent causes, and actionable advice for achieving better rest. Dr. Breus highlights the transforming landscape of sleep disorders, attributing many of today’s sleep issues to modern stressors that did not exist in the past. He emphasizes the importance of managing stress, the impact of technology and lifestyle choices, and how they contribute to increasing sleep problems among individuals.
The discussion reveals that sleep disturbances have historical roots, with societal changes such as the advent of electric light leading to the development of insomnia as a recognized condition. Dr. Breus notes that historically, sleep patterns have shifted dramatically, with the general populace experiencing increased stress levels, leading to more significant sleep-related issues.
Listeners learn that a better understanding of their sleep can translate into improved quality of life. Dr. Breus offers practical tips aimed at enhancing sleep hygiene, including the timing of caffeine and alcohol consumption, the importance of regular sleep schedules, and strategies for winding down. He encourages individuals to recognize their unique chronotypes—biological tendencies that dictate sleep patterns and preferences.
Furthermore, the conversation highlights misconceptions surrounding sleep duration, stressing that the quality of sleep is far more important than adhering to the one-size-fits-all recommendation of eight hours per night. Dr. Breus advocates finding a personal metric of restful sleep that aligns with one’s mental and physical well-being.
Looking ahead, advancements in sleep research may soon lead to innovative treatments, merging pharmaceutical and behavioral approaches to insomnia. Dr. Breus emphasizes the growing role of technology in sleep aids, including the potential for AI-driven therapies that could revolutionize how sleep issues are addressed.
The episode underscores a collective responsibility to establish healthy sleep habits while recognizing that achieving optimal sleep is an individual journey, particularly in a world that often prioritizes productivity over rest.