Insomnia is a persistent disorder that impairs a person's ability to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night. Thus, the person's quality of life, in general, is usually compromised. People with insomnia often start the day already tired, have mood problems and lack energy, and have impaired performance at work or studies as a result of this inability to sleep.
Insomnia is not uncommon in fact, the vast majority of people go through this at some point during their life; however, some people have chronic insomnia, which can last much longer than normal.
Despite there being a plethora of causes that can lead to the inability to sleep, there are a few causes in particular that are very common, and hence we should focus on these most! In this handy guide, we will give you a pretty explicit idea of what these common causes are and how you can use this knowledge as an advantage to stay away from insomnia.
Stress and anxiety.
Stress and anxiety are two of the most common causes of insomnia in young people. The pressures of exams and other commitments can lead to sleepless nights, leaving young people unable to focus or concentrate on their tasks during the day. Electric beds and adjustable beds can provide a comfortable sleeping environment that will allow for improved quality sleep.
Electric beds provide convenience through their electric motors that enable you to adjust their position with the touch of a button, making them an ideal option for those who have insomnia due to stress or anxiety.
They also come with advanced technology such as massage facilities, thermostatic temperature control and anti-snore settings, which can all contribute to a better night's sleep.
Bed frames come in many styles, such as traditional wooden frames, metal frames and adjustable frames. Adjustable bed frames can be altered to suit the user's needs, providing extra comfort and increased circulation while they sleep. This can be especially beneficial for those with anxiety or stress as it will help promote relaxation and support the body in its natural sleeping position.
Eating late at night.
Eating late at night has been linked to an increased risk of insomnia in young people. Research suggests that late-night snacking can interfere with the body's natural circadian rhythm, which is responsible for regulating sleep and wake times. Eating close to bedtime can also disturb digestion, making it difficult for your body to relax enough to get a good night's sleep.
The most common culprits are high-fat, sugary foods and drinks, which can cause a rush of energy that prevents you from falling asleep. Eating too large of a meal late at night may also leave your stomach feeling overly full, causing further discomfort and restlessness when trying to sleep.
Not getting enough exercise during the day.
Exercise is an essential factor in managing insomnia. Lack of physical activity during the day can lead to less restful sleep at night, making it harder for young people to fall asleep, thus making it tricky to maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Even just a short walk or run during the day can help promote better sleep.
Regular exercise also helps increase energy levels during the day, reducing the need for a nap and helping to make it easier to stay asleep at night. Additionally, exercising can release endorphins, helping to reduce stress levels, which can also contribute to better sleep.
Unfriendly sleeping environment.
The sleeping environment is also an essential factor for young people in relation to insomnia. It should be kept dark, quiet and cool, with the ideal temperature being between 18-21°C. Uncomfortable mattresses, pillows, and blankets should be avoided as they can contribute to poor sleep.
The bedroom should be used for sleep only, and activities such as work or exercise should not be done in the bedroom. Furthermore, blue light from screens such as TVs, computers and phones can disrupt sleeping patterns. Therefore, young people should not use these and should ensure to put them aside an hour before their intended bedtime.
Depression.
A person with depression may sleep more than normal and may also not be able to sleep at all. Insomnia is common in cases of depression. As a young person – if you do suffer from depression – try opening up to someone close or, alternatively, visit a therapist.
Age factor.
Insomnia can also become more common with age. With age, the biological clock changes, causing a young person to feel tired earlier in the evening and wake up earlier in the morning. As we age, we need to sleep and rest well for proper body function. Noise and other changes in the environment can also wake someone from sleep.
Importance of Sleep
Even though there is a pretty large contingent of people that think that sleeping is a waste of time, a good night's sleep is crucial for alleviating most health-related problems. Sleeping poorly can cause irritation, headaches, body aches, cognitive difficulties, drowsiness and various changes in metabolism that leave your body susceptible to other diseases, such as hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, depression and diabetes, for example.
During sleep, the organism undergoes a reset, returning to the condition in which it started the day. This includes muscle relaxation, lowering blood pressure, lowering heart rate and urine production, consolidating memory and controlling body temperature. But how to sleep well if you have sleep disorders like insomnia? Following the tips above will help you get a good night's sleep.
