Five Reasons People Avoid Going to the Sleep Doctor

We have heard it all before, the numerous reasons that are made as to why we are not prioritizing sleep. When people break a bone, they go to their doctor to have it assessed. Why is it any different for sleep? Broken sleep should also result in a doctor visit to determine the problem and to address it quickly before it begins to interfere in one’s daily living tasks.

Forget the excuses. There is no substitute for good sleep and the positive impact it will have on your life and your health. If sleep is an issue, schedule an appointment with a sleep specialist to get it addressed and you will see the benefits of healthier sleep.

1: It’s Just Sleep (I will sleep when I die). This could not be any further from the truth. Research has shown that sleep deprivation leads to cardiovascular problems, drowsiness, depression, obesity, and even irritability to name a few. Sleep needs to be a priority in our lives.

2: I have always slept like this (we are just a sleepy family). If you have become accustomed to feeling sleepy through the day due to your sleep issues at night, that is a problem. For some, they do not remember how great they felt with a good night’s rest, as they have turned sleepiness into their new norm. It is time to break that cycle.

3: Everyone is sleepy, how is mine worse? We have all sat in the lounge room at work and discussed being tired or even exhausted. However, for many people, that is not their everyday feeling. If you are sleepy every day and it is affecting your work/life, there is a bigger issue that needs to be addressed.

4: I am just stressed. While stress can be a catalyst for poor sleep, it is important to speak with your healthcare providers to address the underlying cause. If your sleep issues are due to stress, then the stress should be addressed.

5: I work hard and play hard. It is important to maintain a healthy balance in life. Our days should not consist of all work and no play, nor should they consist of all play and no work. However, part of maintaining that healthy balance is also making sure you are getting enough sleep at night to be able to live your life to the fullest. Making sleep an afterthought will catch up with you as we must allow our bodies the opportunity to disconnect and heal.