The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recently conducted a survey that revealed a surprising trend: 81% of Americans are losing sleep due to worries about their sleep problems. This phenomenon highlights the increasing pressure to achieve “perfect sleep,” driven by social media trends, wellness products, and sleep-tracking technology.
Dr. Anita Shelgikar, a sleep medicine physician and president-elect of the AASM, pointed out that the obsession with achieving optimal sleep can actually backfire for some individuals. She explained, “Concerns about getting enough high-quality sleep can create a vicious cycle of stress and sleeplessness. While prioritizing sleep is important for overall health, focusing too heavily on perfecting sleep can lead to decreased sleep quality and quantity.”
The rise of “sleep maxxers,” as described in a New York Times article, has contributed to this cultural shift. These individuals go to great lengths to optimize their sleep routines, from using advanced tracking apps to following strict bedtime rituals in pursuit of achieving the elusive “perfect” eight hours of sleep. However, experts caution that these efforts can inadvertently fuel sleep anxiety, a condition known as “orthosomnia.”
To address these concerns, the AASM recommends several strategies to ease worries and promote better sleep:
1. Create a relaxing sleep environment by keeping your bedroom dark, quiet, and cool.
2. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation before bedtime.
3. Understand that sleep tracking data should be viewed as a guide, not a rigid measure of success.
4. Seek professional help if you continue to experience sleep-related stress or insomnia.
Dr. Shelgikar emphasized that sleep doesn’t have to be perfect every night. The key is to focus on sustainable habits and overall trends in your sleep patterns. The goal should be to get enough sleep to wake up feeling refreshed and well-rested consistently.
If you are struggling with sleep issues, you can use the AASM’s sleep center directory to find help from accredited sleep experts. Remember, it’s important to prioritize your overall well-being and not get caught up in the pursuit of “perfect” sleep.
For more information, you can access the AASM Sleep Prioritization Survey: Losing Sleep Over Sleep on their website. Remember, sleep is essential for your health and should be approached with balance and a focus on long-term well-being.
