Sleep Myths

Myth: You will get sick if you don't get eight hours of sleep each night.
Doctor Says: No amount of sleep fits everyone; individual requirements vary. Some studies show sleeping more than eight hours a day can also be detrimental to your health. For some, five to six hours of sleep may be enough.

Myth: Having poor sleep the night before will make you irritable.

Doctor Says: Most patients can be functional even after a poor night's sleep. It is important not to attribute daily hassles with disturbed sleep. Initiative and motivation may be diminished, but actual performance and alertness may remain intact.

Myth: Insomia is the cause of a chemical imbalance.
Doctor Says: Although this may have a valid contribution, dwelling and worrying about things you can't change will only increase anxiety.

Myth: You can "make up" for lost sleep by napping, sleeping early, or waking up late the next day.
Doctor Says: Varied times of sleep compensation are actually harmful to sleep habits.

Myth: If you try hard enough, you will be able to sleep.
Doctor Says: The more you try, the more anxious you will get, and the more likely you won't be able to sleep.