If you’ve ever hit the pillow and instantly felt wide awake, then you’ll likely understand the familiar clawing panic that comes with a poor night’s sleep.

Whether you’re a clock-watcher, a midnight worrier, or a victim of screen time overload before bed, you might know all too well what sleep anxiety feels like.

A healthy bedtime routine supports our mental wellbeing and physical health - so if sleeping for a solid eight hours straight sounds like, literally, your dream, you might want to take note of these tips from sleep hynotherapist and author of author of The Anxiety Solution, Chloe Brotheridge.

So, what is sleep anxiety?

“Sleep anxiety is where we worry about or fear sleep. Those with sleep anxiety often find themselves preoccupied with the thought of not being able to fall asleep or stay asleep, leading to a heightened state of alertness at bedtime. This worry can create a cycle of anxiety where the fear of not sleeping actually contributes to not being able to sleep, making it a self-perpetuating cycle.”

What are the causes?

“High levels of stress or unresolved worries can make it difficult to relax and fall asleep. Lifestyle factors such as irregular sleep schedules, excessive screen time before bed, or too much caffeine or alcohol can disrupt sleep patterns. Mental health conditions like generalised anxiety disorder, depression, or PTSD can also manifest as sleep anxiety.”

What are the consequences?

“A lack of sleep raises our cortisol levels, meaning we can feel more stressed and anxious. Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to a weakened immune system, weight gain, high blood pressure, and an increased risk of heart disease. Poor sleep can lead to mood swings, reduced concentration and decrease in our quality of life. The cycle of sleep anxiety can also create a persistent fear of bedtime, making the condition increasingly difficult to overcome.”

Easing sleep anxiety is about creating a serene bedtime routine that calms the mind and prepares the body for rest. Here are five simple ways to soothe your sleep anxiety, according to a hypnotherapist…

5 simple habits to ease sleep anxiety according to a hypnotherapist