Adolescence is a crucial time for developing healthy sleep patterns as it is for brain development, according to Fiona Baker, PhD, whose research draws clear lines of connection between the two. “Sleep is so important to us all, but especially for teenagers or adolescents,” says Baker, director of SRI’s Human Sleep Research Program, in a…
Interview by Alyx Arnett Poor sleep commonly has been thought to increase one’s susceptibility to viruses like the common cold, and it more recently has been linked to an increased risk of COVID-19 infection. Whether sleep quality and duration affect the risk of developing long COVID, however, remained to be studied—until now. Siwen Wang, MD…
Interview by Alyx Arnett Cannabidiol, or CBD for short—the non-intoxicating compound derived from the cannabis plant—has gained significant attention over the last several years for its potential therapeutic properties, including improving sleep, but little scientific evidence has existed to support such benefits. Paul J. Muchowski, PhD A recent clinical trial has shed new light on…
A study based on more than 600,000 participants suggests that insomnia increases the risk of influenza and other respiratory infections. Sleep problems also increased the risk of COVID-19 infection requiring hospitalization. The study, led by researchers at the University of Helsinki and published in eBioMedicine, shows that a previous diagnosis of insomnia increases the risk…
By Jeffrey McGovern, MD, FAASM, FCCP “Frame your mind to mirth and merriment, which bars a thousand harms and lengthen life”—William Shakespeare (The Taming of the Shrew, Scene 2 introduction) Narcolepsy is a disorder primarily characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and signs of rapid eye movement (REM)-sleep dissociation manifested in type 1 pattern as cataplexy…
Nox Health has closed the acquisition of Somryst, the only US Food and Drug Administration-approved prescription digital therapeutic that delivers first-line treatment for adults with chronic insomnia, from Pear Therapeutics. The addition of Somryst expands Nox Health’s suite of tools and programs that address a critical and growing demand for sleep care management for populations…
Daytime napping may help to preserve brain health by slowing the rate at which our brains shrink as we age, suggests a new study published in Sleep Health. The study, led by researchers at University College London and the University of the Republic in Uruguay, analyzed data from people aged 40 to 69 and found…
The Therapy for Black Girls Podcast is a weekly conversation with Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, a licensed Psychologist in Atlanta, Georgia, about all things mental health, personal development, and all the small decisions we can make to become the best possible versions of ourselves. We’ve had dozens of therapists on the podcast sharing their perspectives…
Lightning can be majestic. That is, from a safe distance. Or from a secure shelter that frees us from the threat of electrocution, and allows us to enjoy the spectacular show. The concept of majesty first brings to mind great sights, like distant lightning. Whether it’s a scenic vista of purple mountain majesties, the skyline…
According to a new survey commissioned by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), more than half of Americans “always” or “often” exhibit insomnia symptoms by having trouble falling asleep (54%) or staying asleep (53%). On June 21, the “shortest night of the year,” AASM will hold the 10th annual Insomnia Awareness Night in collaboration…