The Pandemic Is Turning Us All Into Insomniacs

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Who else is feeling perpetually exhausted after a year and a half of sleepless nights? Insomnia was already an issue for many before the pandemic, but with the chaos that ensued, it’s like we entered a never-ending cycle of wakefulness. This isn’t just a few restless nights; it’s a relentless battle. The anxiety spirals, often hitting us at 2:00 a.m., are now routine. Falling asleep or waking up in the middle of the night has become a common experience, but this is anything but normal. Our bodies require sleep just as they need oxygen.

I recall early March 2020 when every store I subscribed to suddenly flooded my inbox with updates about closures. Everything shifted to pick-up only. While it was meant to provide reassurance, it only heightened my anxiety. I found myself glued to my screens, consuming information about Covid and unnervingly doom-scrolling for hours.

At the onset of the pandemic, many were optimistic, believing Covid would be under control in just a few months. Who can forget the infamous statement, “I really believe they are going to have it under control fairly soon. You know in April, supposedly, it dies with the hotter weather.” But we quickly learned the truth. Our sleep quality and quantity began to decline. Those who once claimed they were insomniacs after one bad night were suddenly facing the harsh reality of chronic sleeplessness. So, what’s driving this surge in insomnia? And more importantly, how can we address it?

What’s Contributing to the Rise in Insomnia?

It’s a relentless cycle. During the day, whether at work or home, anxiety about potential Covid exposure looms. If your kids are at school, you might worry that they’re interacting with asymptomatic individuals who are unvaccinated. These fears are valid. If they don’t keep you up at night, consider yourself lucky; for many, they are invasive and unsettling, often interrupting our ability to sleep soundly. A UK study from the University of Southampton revealed that the number of people experiencing insomnia surged from one in six to one in four since the pandemic began—a staggering increase. We cannot continue like this.

Our sleeplessness stems not only from anxiety but also from the sheer lack of time during the day. Before you say “we all have the same 24 hours,” hold that thought. With kids learning online and our work schedules shifting to accommodate them, those rare moments of solitude disappeared. Many lost jobs, forcing them to juggle gig work between parenting duties. It’s no wonder we’re running on empty.

This chronic lack of sleep not only contributes to insomnia but also raises the risk of mental health issues like depression. Ironically, worrying about Covid can lead to insomnia, and poor sleep can weaken our immune systems, making us more vulnerable to illness. According to Vox.com, “Being chronically tired could be putting our health at risk — especially as Covid-19 continues to spread.”

But don’t despair; there is hope. Let’s explore some strategies for achieving better rest and avoiding insomnia.

What Can We Do to Sleep Better?

While naps and bubble baths are delightful, they won’t resolve insomnia. Engaging in self-care is vital, whether that means taking a mental health day or using over-the-counter sleep aids to support your natural sleep cycle. Interestingly, melatonin use skyrocketed by over 40% in 2020, signaling a clear message about our struggles. However, sometimes this alone isn’t enough.

If you frequently find it challenging to fall or stay asleep, consult your primary care physician. Along with recommending over-the-counter sleep aids, they may suggest prescription options or therapy. In therapy, you can discuss your anxieties and what’s truly keeping you awake at night.

Unfortunately, access to therapy isn’t universal. Many who need help can’t find a provider, and long wait times complicate the issue. This pandemic has exposed systemic inequalities in healthcare and economics.

Fortunately, many employers have recognized these challenges and are offering more flexible schedules. After all, we’re adults who can manage our time effectively. If we can complete our work in less time, why shouldn’t we be allowed to catch a quick nap? Poor mental and physical health, along with insomnia, are symptoms of deeper societal issues. It’s time to reshape our future—let’s not carry insomnia into our new normal.

For more insight on related topics, check out this post on how to manage stress during the pandemic and learn about effective home insemination techniques at Make a Mom. For those seeking comprehensive information on pregnancy and home insemination, Healthline is an excellent resource.

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Summary:

The pandemic has significantly impacted sleep patterns, leading to a rise in insomnia. Anxiety about Covid exposure and changes in daily routines contribute to sleeplessness. Although self-care strategies and potential medical interventions are available, addressing systemic inequalities in healthcare and workplace flexibility is essential for improving overall well-being.

Keyphrase: insomnia during the pandemic
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