According to a new poll conducted by the National Sleep Foundation, almost a third of Americans are finding themselves tossing and turning at night because of worries about the country's economic woes.
Worries about money ranked higher than any other concern, such as the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, global warming or terrorism.
The poll results indicated that 27% of those surveyed had had disturbed sleep in the past month due to money issues - including personal finances (16%), the U.S. economy (15%) and losing their job (10%).
The study participants also reported that they were more than twice as likely to miss participating in family events, leisure activities and work functions due to sleepiness.
"It is important for Americans to recognize that good sleep is not negotiable," said report co-author Michael V. Vitiello, "rather it is a pillar of good health and function. As times get tougher, it actually becomes more important than ever to do what one can to maintain good sleep quality, as poor sleep has such an immediate impact on daily function and longer-term impact on physical health."
If you are finding yourself among those who are losing sleep over economic worries, you'll want to read University of Alabama professor Josh Klapow's tips for coping with economic turmoil. I would also recommend these tips for beating insomnia. If you find, however, that despite your best efforts you just can't get a handle on your sleep problems, don't be afraid to see your doctor for medical treatment of your insomnia.
You can learn more about the National Sleep Foundation's annual Sleep in America polls by visiting their website.
I had insomnia about 22 years ago, during a bout of depression. However my dad recently passed away and once again, I went into a state of depression. This time, instead of experiencing insomnia, I was falling victim to Hyper-Somnia which is the complete opposite, from insomnia. I would sleep 2 or 3 days straight and I just wasnt’ able to wake up and function. My Dr. put me on Prozac and I’m doing a lot better now, but I still have my moments of over sleeping.
i am currently in a state of depression in my life and insomnia affects me daily. I find myself not being able to go to sleep until 1 2 or even 3 in the morning. I also always awake at least or around noon or later. It has really bothered me and i would like to know how to beat it.