COVID-19, Insomnia, and the Importance of Sleep with Jennifer Martin, PhD

According to the most recent APA Stress in America Study, 66% of people reported sleeping more or less than they wanted to since the pandemic started. Previously, I've written blogs (click here or here) about causes and remedies for insomnia. In this interview with psychologist Dr. Jennifer Martin (conducted by the American Psychological Association), additional insights and tips relevant to "coronasomnia" are discussed. This super informative interview is full of great information for those that are struggling with sleep. If you prefer to read, a transcription of the interview is also posted.    

Three things that I found most interesting are: 
1) How to get your sleep back on track with daily schedule changes, new jobs, and returning to the
   workplace: Dr. Martin encourages people to set a routine, much like what may have been in place
   prior to the start of the pandemic. It's reassuring how she mentions that the brain and body 
  have a homeostatic process where the body chemically regulates how much sleep is needed.
2) Solutions for insomnia that come with mixed reviews: You cannot will yourself to fall asleep at
    night. I agree with this- along with this I would say that the old strategy of "counting sheep"   
   doesn't work. Dr. Martin states over-the-counter remedies such as  melatonin, Tylenol PM, Advil
   PM, and anti-histamines ARE NOT the first line of treatment for insomnia according to medical
   research (contrary to common practice!).These medications can be risky for the elderly, can
   have interactions with other medications, and overtime may lessen in effectiveness. 
3) Dr. Martin's treatment advice for insomnia?: Cognitive behavioral therapy is recommended as a
    first line of treatment for most people while medications are only recommended as a     
    treatment option for some. If sleep problems persist for 3 months or more, it may be time to
    seek professional help. Mobile apps can also be a self-help support aid, with positive       
​    recommendations for the Insomnia Coach and the CBT-i Coach. ​

​I hope that you found this post helpful- if you are interested in getting help with improving your sleep or related concerns, call or send an email for more information. 

<3 Be well !
Dr. Melissa Soo Hoo