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What Is Sleep Hygiene, Exactly?
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Okay, probably, but struggling to drift off is still the worst.
How does an over-the-counter sleep aid work?
Many OTC sleep aid rely on thehormone melatoninas the active ingredient.
licensed therapist and mental health advocate
Sleep aids that contain melatonin, a naturally occurring hormone, helpregulate the internal clockthat controls your sleep cycle.
This is why some people have morevivid dreams while taking sleep medications.
TheOLLY Sleep Gummies, $10, are my personal faves.)
A side effect of these medications is drowsiness, which is why they can be helpful at bedtime.
What is the OTC equivalent to Ambien?
That doesnt mean you should go gulping the medications or double-dosing pills, though.
Is it safe to take OTC sleep aids regularly?
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Very few people need one every night, he says.
This is due to their potential side effects, according to Dr. Breus.
(Though, its worth noting that this study specifically speaks to pharmacological sleep medication, such as benzodiazepines.
This is an important differentiation, as OTC sleep aids are non-pharmacological medications.)
In addition, many people use alcohol while taking them which only makes things worse, he says.
The three most recurring beingcognitive behavioral therapy[CBT], improvingsleep hygiene, and moving your body.
CBT is the therapy that I practice.
It helps withanxiety and depression, which are closely linked to sleeplessness.
Meanwhile, sleep hygiene may not be what you thinkits about how snooze-friendly your routine and space are.
Are you going to bed and waking up at consistent times?
Are you filling your diet with thebest foods for sleep?
Do you have a bedtime routine that allows you to unwind before you should probably fall asleep?
Is your lighting warm and soothing?
Are your sheets comfortable and breathable?
Is your bed positioned in sight of a window so you could still benefit from sunrise?
If they find nothing, consulting with a sleep coach may help.
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