Sleepless nights are a near-universal affliction that can take a lot out of you. Those who struggle with daytime sleepiness regularly should consider these possible causes. You may find that a simple fix will get you back to feeling alert and ready to take on the day. If you’re tired of constantly feeling tired, check out these six possible reasons you can’t sleep at night.
Your mattress
Since comfort is key to restful sleep, your old, lumpy mattress may be the culprit behind your sleepless nights. Luckily, your situation isn’t permanent. You can channel your inner goldilocks and get your hands on a bed that’s just right. Consider replacing your uncomfortable mattress with a lung-friendly organic mattress. The investment is well worth it for the sake of your health and might be the measure that puts a stop to your tossing and turning once and for all.
Anxiety and depression
Depression and anxiety disorders are unfortunate but common mental health conditions that can keep you up at night. If you find that your daily stresses lead you down spirals of endless worry and rumination at night, you should bring up your concerns to a doctor or therapist.
In the meantime, consider implementing a few tips to relieve stress before bedtime. You might be surprised by how helpful small habits like breathing exercises or practicing gratitude can be when it comes to catching zzzs.
The temperature of the room
Any discomfort can keep your brain from falling asleep, and temperature-based discomfort is no exception. The optimal temperature range for sleep is between 60 and 65 degrees. Although standard “room temperature” might be closer to 70 or 72 degrees, you won’t sleep well if your room is too warm.
Try lowering the thermostat or adding a fan to your bedside if you find yourself struggling to get rest. You might also have good luck with a cooling mattress protector.
Your medications
Some medications have a stimulating effect that can keep you up at night. If you suspect your meds of disturbing your sleep, ask your doctor or pharmacist if you can switch medications or take them at a better time (in the morning or during the day).
Alcohol or caffeine consumption
It is easy to disregard everyday substances like caffeine and alcohol when considering sleep problems. They are so commonplace and, especially in the case of alcohol, might even seem to help you sleep better. In fact, some adults swear that a glass of red wine before bed helps them sleep like a baby.
However, both alcohol and caffeine consumption can lead to poor sleep. Caffeinated and alcoholic beverages disrupt your natural circadian rhythm and affect you long after you noticeably feel affected. As such, drinking coffee after the morning time can make it harder for you to fall asleep and stay asleep. Even a reduction in consumption might be the ticket to better sleep.
Insomnia
If you’ve considered all of the other possible sleep-inhibiting factors and have ruled them out, consider that you may have medical insomnia. Though unfortunate, insomnia is still a solvable medical issue. Your doctor can help you determine if sleep medication would be a good fit for you, if only for the short term.
Wrap-up
Some sleep-related problems are easier to solve than others, but the bottom line is that there are possible solutions for each one. It is worth the time, effort, and financial investment to ensure that you’re getting the rest that your body and mind need.