Entering the second year of the pandemic, a recurring topic is insomnia. With the anxiety and stress that everyone is experiencing, this syndrome remains high. According to a study conducted by the University of Southampton in the UK in August 2020, the number of people suffering from insomnia increased from one in six to one in four. In China, insomnia rates rose from 14.6% to 20% during social isolation; in Greece, nearly 40% of respondents reported having insomnia in May, and so on. Furthermore, the word "insomnia" was the most searched term on Google in 2020 compared to previous years.
The fact is that we need to take care of our health more than ever, and having insomnia does not contribute to that. According to sleep medicine specialist and president of the Brazilian Sleep Association Regional ES, Jéssica Polese, we must try to address the situation. "Having insomnia complicates various long-term diseases, such as diabetes, obesity, and depression. Additionally, sleeping less than seven hours a day affects your mood, your work, and due to the pandemic, everything today is more intense," highlights the specialist.
The prolongation of the pandemic, social distancing, the longing for family, friends, and the work environment (many are working from home) have shaken daily routines, leading to alarming consequences for sleep. "Our brain was used to a routine; it recognized the moments for work, concentration, leisure, and relaxation. Now many people are at home, working in bedrooms, which for us doctors was unthinkable and never suggested. However, we cannot demand anything from anyone, knowing the harsh reality of Brazilians, thus sleep is affected by various unfavorable factors," emphasizes Jessica.
Moreover, the lack of motivation, uncertainty, and delays in vaccination generate anxiety that affects the mental health of some individuals. "I see many patients in my office with insomnia caused by stress and anxiety, due to job losses, not knowing how the situation will improve; it is a very difficult moment," she states. Jéssica warns that "the problem can start simply but can become chronic: As hospitals are currently exclusively treating Covid-19 cases, the population is left without basic care," she reports.
What can be done to address the situation? The sleep medicine specialist provides basic tips that need to be followed to avoid resorting to medication: "Do not consume alcoholic beverages or smoke before sleeping; avoid using your phone or watching TV; try to relax before bed, read a book, listen to relaxing music; consume light foods, as they help combat insomnia," she emphasizes.
A survey warns that 41% of healthcare professionals suffer from insomnia.
Another group suffering from insomnia, which we reported in a survey released last year, are healthcare professionals, with 41% of them affected. (Survey by the Brazilian Sleep Association – Absono in May/June 2020). "The professionals were already shaken last year; this year they are reaching exhaustion, and much of it can be caused by insomnia."
We hope that this situation will pass soon and that we can all be healthy and return to our new normal.
Participe da conversa