As the impact of anxiety on daily life continues to rise, more adults are seeking professional help to improve their sleep habits. A recent 2023 Gallup poll revealed that 57 percent of Americans believe they would feel better with more sleep, a significant increase from 43 percent in 2013. However, only about a quarter of those surveyed reported getting the recommended eight or more hours of sleep each night, down from 34 percent a decade ago. This shift has prompted a growing number of sleep coaches to step in, aiding adults in overcoming sleep challenges exacerbated by modern-day stressors.
Transitioning from Children to Adults
Initially, sleep coaches focused primarily on infants and their parents. Yet, as concerns about adult sleep patterns have surged, professionals are now addressing the needs of a wider demographic. One sleep consultant, who has spent over 20 years in the field, transitioned from working with children to helping adults after observing the toll that sleep deprivation takes on parents. “Their children’s sleep issues were literally pushing them to the brink of divorce,” she explained. “Once I got their kids to be fabulous sleepers, the parents were still struggling due to long-standing habits.”
The consultant noted that adults often arrive with two primary concerns: a major life event, such as work stress or a relationship change, or chronic sleep issues that have persisted since childhood. In both cases, these individuals are typically exhausted and ready for change.
Identifying Patterns and Solutions
Coaching sessions aim to unravel the underlying issues that contribute to sleep disturbances. One client, for example, discovered that their late-night eating habits were disrupting their sleep cycle. Another individual, who exercised regularly and consumed large quantities of water, was unaware that frequent bathroom trips at night were affecting their rest. “We had to diminish the amount of water she drank and have her stop drinking at a certain hour,” the consultant shared.
Many clients report feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands. One mother even admitted to forgetting to fasten her child’s seatbelt in the car due to fatigue. “I start with the basics,” the consultant noted, emphasizing the importance of sleep hygiene. “Most people think they have a good setup, but their habits or their environment are working against them.”
Coaching focuses on challenging self-defeating narratives about sleep. “People have these stories that they’ve told themselves, like, ‘If I sleep, then I’m not working hard enough,’” she said. The consultant employs techniques such as journaling and cognitive behavioral therapy to help clients reshape their understanding of sleep.
Sessions typically last 12 weeks, allowing for continuous support between meetings. Many clients appreciate the regular check-ins, as their friends and coworkers often grow tired of hearing about their sleep struggles.
Confronting Modern Stressors
The rise of technology, including the pervasive nature of social media and the 24-hour news cycle, has introduced new challenges to sleep. Many individuals find themselves caught in a cycle of doomscrolling, which can heighten anxiety levels and disrupt relaxation. “We’re overstimulated by screens, constant notifications, and negative news,” the consultant explained. “This floods our brain with cortisol and perpetuates anxious thinking.”
To combat this, she advises clients to set aside specific “worry time” during the day, allowing them to address concerns without letting those thoughts invade their bedtime. “Let’s have some designated worry time so that I’m not taking away worry from people,” she suggested. “When you wake up at night, you can say, ‘This isn’t the right time to do this.’”
Despite the challenges, the consultant believes that it is never too late to improve sleep habits. “We are fully capable of changing our situations and our sleep,” she said. “It’s about finding the right support and strategies to make those changes.”
As the need for better sleep becomes increasingly recognized, sleep consultants are stepping up to offer guidance and support, helping individuals reclaim their rest and, ultimately, their well-being.
