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Trouble sleeping? You may have COVID-somnia

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Are you having trouble getting enough zzz’s? If so, you’re not alone.

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Studies show many people across the country have reported cases of pandemic-induced insomnia. Scientists even have a name for it: COVID-somnia.

Disrupted sleep, they say, is linked to the emotional, financial and psychological stress as a result of the outbreak. People also fear being infected by the coronavirus.

In a recent study, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine surveyed 2,006 adults. Fifty-six percent of respondents reported having difficulty falling and staying asleep. This is compared to previous national surveys by the organization showing pre-pandemic insomnia rates between 10% and 30%.

Below is a list of tips courtesy of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on how you can get better sleep.

  • Go to bed and get up at the same time each day.
  • Make sure your bedroom is quiet, dark and relaxing.
  • Turn off electronics such as TVs, computers and smart phones.
  • Avoid large meals, caffeine and alcohol before bedtime.
  • Exercise. Activity during the day can help you fall asleep more easily at night.