Who else feels perpetually exhausted after a year and a half of sleepless nights? Insomnia was already a widespread issue before the pandemic, but the chaos that ensued only exacerbated it, creating a perfect storm for restless nights. This isn’t just a case of occasional sleeplessness; it’s an ongoing, draining battle. The cycle of anxiety and worry, spiraling into the early hours of the morning, has become a grim routine for many of us. Night after night, struggling to drift off or waking up at odd hours has turned into a sad new normal—though let’s be clear, there’s nothing normal about it. Our bodies require sleep just as much as we need air.
I recall early March 2020 when my inbox flooded with emails from every retailer I subscribed to, announcing closures and a shift to pick-up only. What was intended to be reassuring felt anything but. I found myself consuming information about COVID and endlessly scrolling through doom-laden news for hours.
At the onset of the pandemic, many (hello, some politicians) confidently predicted that COVID would soon be under control. Who could forget the infamous line about how the virus would be “gone in April with warmer weather”? But we quickly learned otherwise, leading to a significant decline in the quality and quantity of sleep for many. Those who once thought they were insomniacs after just one restless night are now confronted with the harsh truth of chronic sleeplessness. So, what has driven us to become a nation of insomniacs, and more importantly, how can we address this?
What Drives Insomnia During the Pandemic?
It’s a brutal cycle. During the day, anxiety looms large—whether you’re at work fearing exposure to the virus, or at home worrying about your kids’ safety at school. These fears are valid. If they don’t keep you awake, lucky you. For the rest of us, these intrusive thoughts are frightening enough to rob us of restful sleep. A study by the University of Southampton revealed that the incidence of insomnia has jumped from one in six to one in four during the pandemic. That’s a staggering increase, and it’s clear that we cannot keep going on this way.
Not only do we struggle to sleep due to anxiety, but our schedules have also been upended. With kids home for online learning, any precious moments of quiet time were sacrificed. Work hours began earlier or stretched later to accommodate their needs, and many lost jobs, taking on gig work whenever they could. It’s no wonder we’re surviving on less sleep.
Moreover, poor sleep can lead to secondary mental health issues, such as depression. Ironically, the worries surrounding COVID can lead to insomnia, while inadequate sleep can weaken our immune systems, making us more vulnerable to the virus. According to a report from Vox.com, chronic fatigue could jeopardize our health, especially as COVID-19 remains a threat. It’s a frustrating cycle, but it’s not too late to turn things around.
How Can We Improve Our Sleep?
While a nap or a bubble bath sounds lovely, they won’t tackle insomnia on their own. However, self-care remains essential. Whether that means taking a mental health day (because mental health matters) or utilizing over-the-counter sleep aids to help regulate your sleep cycle, it’s all part of the process. Interestingly, melatonin use surged by over 40% in 2020, highlighting a significant need for sleep support.
If you consistently struggle to fall and stay asleep, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor. Beyond over-the-counter aids, they may suggest prescription options or therapy to help address the underlying issues causing your sleeplessness. Therapy can provide a safe space to discuss your worries and what’s keeping you up at night.
Unfortunately, not everyone has access to mental health resources, and systemic inequalities have been laid bare by this pandemic. Many employers have recognized the need for flexibility, allowing employees to manage their schedules better. After all, if we can complete our work efficiently, why not allow for a brief nap during the day? Poor mental health and insomnia are symptoms of larger societal issues, and it’s time to reshape our new normal. Let’s leave the sleeplessness behind us.
For further insights, check out our other blog post about improving your sleep habits. Additionally, if you’re looking for guidance regarding pregnancy and home insemination, the World Health Organization offers excellent resources on the topic.
Summary
The pandemic has exacerbated insomnia for many, creating a cycle of anxiety and poor sleep that impacts overall health. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach that includes self-care, consultation with healthcare professionals, and systemic changes in work environments. It’s crucial to prioritize sleep and mental health as we navigate this challenging time.
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