There is significant potential for profit in the sleep industry, which encompasses a variety of products from sunrise alarm clocks to advanced mattresses, REM-tracking devices, and regular melatonin subscriptions. But should investors be betting heavily on this market in pursuit of better sleep?
Season 8 of the Quartz Obsession podcast wraps up with a conversation featuring a sleep specialist, Dr. Michael Breus. The podcast addresses critical questions surrounding sleep:
Why is there such a vast market focused on sleep?
Do all these products genuinely assist with rest?
What biological functions necessitate sleep?
What occurs in our brains and bodies while we are dreaming?
Rocio Fabbro, a staff writer at Quartz and the podcast’s host, joins Dr. Breus, a double board-certified clinical psychologist and sleep specialist, to delve into these sleep-related mysteries.
Dr. Breus highlights that insomnia is a growing concern in contemporary society, attributing much of it to heightened stress and distractions from technology. Historically, sleep disorders were less recognized prior to significant technological advances like the light bulb, which altered people’s sleeping patterns.
He stresses that stress and anxiety contribute significantly to insomnia, affecting about 75% of sufferers. Additionally, other factors such as environment, screen time, and even certain medical conditions can exacerbate sleep issues.
The conversation emphasizes the importance of creating suitable pre-sleep environments, suggesting that while some engage in ‘doom scrolling’ on social media before bed, such practices are counterproductive to achieving a restful night.
Dr. Breus also points out the cultural variations in sleep practices, such as the traditional siesta in some Latin American cultures. He explains that understanding sleep patterns based on genetic predispositions—referred to as chronotypes—can help tailor solutions for better sleep quality.
Prominent advancements in sleep research revolve around better understanding insomnia, its causes, and potential treatments, both pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical. The importance of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in managing insomnia is particularly noted, with evidence indicating that it can be more effective than medication alone.
As the conversation wraps up, Dr. Breus shares essential strategies for improving sleep: establishing a consistent wake-up time, limiting caffeine and alcohol intake, exercising regularly, and maintaining hydration. He suggests that by abiding by these practical steps over the course of weeks, individuals may notice significant improvements in their overall sleep quality.
In summary, the podcast sheds light on the complexities of sleep and insomnia while offering actionable insights for better sleep management, underscoring both personal responsibility and the potential for future advancements in sleep medicine.