Why Can't I Fall Asleep? - Some Facts About Sleep

We’ve all experienced it at some point in our lives–tired, sleepless nights.

Some may struggle with more chronic forms of insomnia, but the majority of people have had trouble falling asleep throughout their lives. It may not be an everyday occurrence, but it happens every so often and usually on a night when we need sleep the most.

What causes our inability to fall asleep? The truth is that there are a variety of causes of insomnia. Insomnia may be viewed as a symptom of something bigger, especially if one is suffering from chronic insomnia. Depression, anxiety, and stress can certainly cause chronic and short-term insomnia, but what else?

Common Causes of Sleep Troubles

Recent traumatic experience.
Other medications affecting your sleeping habits.
Other health problems keeping you awake at night.
Is your sleep environment too noisy or uncomfortable?
Do you try to sleep and wake up at the same time everyday?
Are you stressed?
Do you worry too much?
Do you feel depressed or hopeless?

Many times we may blindly turn to sleeping pills or other forms of sleep aids that prove to be ineffective. Here are some commons myths about sleep aids and insomnia:

Myths

1. Drinking alcohol can help you sleep

While alcohol can have the effect of making you sleepy, it can also cause you endure a restless sleep or even cause you to wake up earlier than you should.

2. Insomnia is all in your head

While it’s true that some psychological issues may keep you from sleeping, there could be other issues at stake. It’s important to determine what is causing your inability to sleep, especially if it’s a separate health issue.

3. Watching TV or surfing the web will help you sleep

The truth is that these activities can be quite stimulating, and may even prevent one from getting sleep. Not to mention both TV and computers emit a blue "daylight," which can confuse your brain into thinking it's still daytime.

4. Sleeping pills will do the trick

One important thing to remember is to always consult your doctor before taking sleeping aids. Not all sleeping pills are created equal, and you do not want to become reliant on sleeping pills in order for you to sleep well. Dependency on sleeping aids is not the answer.

So what are some things you can do to help you sleep better? Here are some things you may want to try or at least consider:

Listen to relaxing music or download a sleep app.
Set aside 30 minutes to wind down before bedtime. Dim the lights, read a book, or listen to relaxing music. Get your mind and body prepared for adequate rest.
Avoid devices. Technology is all around us. It is important to disconnect from these devices so that our minds can shut down.
Try taking deep, slow breaths to help your body and mind wind down.
If you cannot fall asleep within 20-30 minutes, get up and do a relaxing activity. Tossing and turning can actually prevent you from ever falling asleep. Your bed can therefore turn into an enemy; you want to associate your bed with sleep.
Create a routine. Wake up at the same time every day if possible. The best way to catch up on sleep is to establish a sleeping habit and stick to it.
Avoid caffeine. If you must, drink your caffeinated drinks earlier in the day so the caffeine can leave your system by the time you need to go to bed.
Spend time outside in the sun. Exposure to sunlight can help create a balanced melatonin level which will help you sleep at night.
Take a hot bath or shower. Relax.
Keep your room dark and cool. This environment will help promote sleep.
De-stress early in the day. Set some time aside every day to vent and let off steam, so that when you’re trying to sleep, the stress part is gone.

We understand there is not much worse than tossing and turning through a sleepless night. At Mattress Dealzz, we want you to have the best night’s rest possible. Having the right mattress is also key to helping get the sleep you need and deserve.