Have you tested positive to Covid and find you cannot sleep?

Insomnia has been a global concern for many years but now it has reached a new level of concern amongst those that have tested Covid positive.

As if the symptoms of the virus like cough, sore throat, fever and exhaustion aren’t bad enough, getting no relief from inability to sleep means you spend your day and night unwell, irritable and unable to get the mental and physical rest you need to help you heal.

A recent survey by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine found that of those reporting sleep disturbance with Covid symptoms, 57% are having trouble falling asleep, 46% sleeping less, 45% sleeping worse than before they got Covid, and 36% suffering disturbed dreams and nightmares.

Which groups are worse affected?

According to the survey, the highest rates of COVID-somnia causing 70% of disturbed sleep was amongst men aged between 35-44 years old. Those aged 55 plus were more likely to have delayed sleep onset and more broken sleep.

Stress, lifestyle and behaviours often leads to insomnia and making an intentional habit to sleep better can help.

You may have heard to reduce your screen time and turn off electronics at least 30 minutes before bed? What we know at nighnigh -the science of sleep, is that screen interaction doesn’t necessarily cause insomnia and may in-fact help you relax and fall asleep faster.

Have you seen the light?

When you are sick you may well be staying inside and in the dark for too long which can affect your sleep. This makes what you do when you wake equally as important as a cool, dark, and peaceful bedroom is for falling asleep. If you can set up a comfy place preferably outside or near a window, one hour daylight exposure when you wake, even on a cloudy day, is helpful for keeping your sleep rhythms on track. Light exposure helps with sleep timing and nature provides a simple means for getting bright light to the eye which influences sleep receptors deep in the brain.

Spend some time focussing on calming your mind rather than dwelling on those thoughts that keep your mind racing. We love this relaxation Bodyscan because it has been scientifically tested for best results.

If your sleep problems persist you would benefit with sleep intervention. Our Brief Behavioural Therapy can turn your sleep around in under 7 days because what we teach you is based on solid clinical results using the latest sleep techniques for insomnia.

Wishing you a speedy Covid recovery and return to good sleep!

SWEET DREAMS
From
Deb