Who else is feeling perpetually exhausted after a year and a half of sleepless nights? Insomnia was already a concern for many before the pandemic, but the chaos of the last few years has created an environment ripe for restless nights. We’re not just talking about an occasional bout of wakefulness; this is a relentless battle. Tossing and turning at 2:00 a.m. has become a routine, with anxiety over countless what-ifs invading our nightly peace. Our bodies crave sleep just as much as we need air to breathe.
Back in early March 2020, every store I subscribed to started sending emails about their closures. Suddenly, everything was only available for pick-up. While intended to reassure us, it had the opposite effect. I found myself consuming endless information about COVID-19, scrolling through social media for hours, fully immersed in doom.
At first, there was a sense of optimism from some leaders who believed the pandemic would pass quickly. Who could forget the claim that the virus would disappear with warmer weather? Yet, as reality set in, our sleep began to suffer significantly. Those who once brushed off insomnia as merely a missed night of sleep were thrust into the depths of chronic sleeplessness.
How the Pandemic Promotes Insomnia
It’s a cruel cycle. During the day, work brings anxiety about exposure to COVID-19. If you’re home while your kids are at school, you worry about their interactions with unvaccinated peers. These fears are valid and, for many, they invade our thoughts at night, preventing restful sleep. A study from the University of Southampton revealed that the incidence of insomnia has surged from one in six to one in four people since the pandemic began. That’s a significant increase, and clearly, we can’t sustain this way of living.
Not only does anxiety rob us of sleep, but the demands on our time have also changed drastically. With kids learning online, our precious moments of solitude disappeared. Work hours stretched to adapt to their schedules, and with many losing jobs, side gigs filled the gaps in childcare. It’s no wonder we’re running on empty.
Moreover, this lack of sleep can lead to further mental health issues like depression. Ironically, our worries about COVID-19 can result in insomnia, which in turn weakens our immune systems, making us even more susceptible to the virus. It’s a frustrating cycle, but there is hope. Let’s explore ways to improve our sleep and combat insomnia.
Tips for Feeling More Rested
While bubble baths and naps are enjoyable, they won’t cure our insomnia. Engaging in self-care is crucial, whether that involves taking a mental health day or using over-the-counter sleep aids to support your sleep cycle. Interestingly, melatonin sales soared over 40% in 2020, a clear sign of our collective struggle for sleep.
If you consistently find it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep, consult your primary care physician. They may suggest over-the-counter aids, prescription medications, or even therapy to help address your worries. Therapy can provide an avenue to discuss the anxieties keeping you awake.
Unfortunately, access to such resources can be limited. The pandemic has highlighted systemic inequalities, especially in healthcare. Many employers recognized the need for flexibility, allowing employees to manage their schedules better. After all, if we can complete our tasks efficiently, shouldn’t we be able to take a brief nap?
The issues of poor mental and physical health, along with insomnia, stem from deeper societal issues. It’s time we reshape our norms, but let’s not carry forward the baggage of sleeplessness.
For further insights, check out this related post on our blog. And if you’re exploring options for home insemination, consider trusted sources like Make a Mom and March of Dimes.
Search Queries:
- insomnia causes
- how to sleep better
- home remedies for insomnia
- mental health and sleep
- insomnia treatment options
In summary, the pandemic has exacerbated insomnia for many, creating a cycle of anxiety and sleeplessness that impacts our overall well-being. While self-care and medical advice can help, addressing the broader systemic issues is crucial for long-term solutions.
Leave a Reply