A growing number of adults are turning to sleep coaches to address chronic insomnia and the negative impact of doomscrolling on their rest. Recent data from a 2023 Gallup poll indicates that 57 percent of Americans believe they would feel better with more sleep, a significant increase from 43 percent in 2013. Despite this awareness, only about one in four respondents reported achieving the recommended eight hours of sleep each night, down from 34 percent a decade earlier. This trend has prompted sleep professionals to focus not only on children but also on adults who struggle with sleep-related issues.
Sleep coaches, traditionally sought for newborns and their exhausted parents, are now finding a substantial demand among adults. Many individuals experiencing sleep difficulties often enter into a spiral of anxiety, particularly exacerbated by the pressures of modern life, including work stress and constant engagement with digital devices. According to sleep consultant Elana Klein, who has over 20 years of experience, adults frequently seek help following a significant life event or due to long-standing patterns of poor sleep.
Klein notes that her role involves unraveling the complexities behind what keeps individuals awake. “Some of the toughest cases are those who focus solely on their nighttime habits without disclosing daytime issues,” she explains. For instance, she recalls a client who had trouble sleeping through the night, only to discover that their late-night eating habits were disrupting their sleep cycle. Another client, who exercised regularly and consumed excessive amounts of water, was unaware that her frequent trips to the bathroom were impacting her rest.
Many people come to Klein with deeply ingrained beliefs about sleep. “They often tell themselves stories, like ‘If I sleep, then I’m not working hard enough’ or ‘I’m young and I don’t need that much sleep,'” she says. By reframing these narratives, clients can begin to understand the importance of sleep for overall well-being.
Klein employs various techniques, including cognitive behavioral therapy, journaling, and breath work, to facilitate change. Working with clients typically involves a commitment of twelve sessions over three months, with ongoing support between meetings. This consistent communication is vital, especially as friends and colleagues often grow weary of hearing about sleep struggles.
The modern landscape of constant digital engagement poses additional challenges. Klein points out that many individuals find themselves overwhelmed by screens and notifications, leading to increased cortisol levels and heightened anxiety. “Doomscrolling floods our brains with information that can escalate anxious thinking,” she states. Recognizing this cycle, she encourages clients to set aside specific times for worry, allowing them to process their concerns without compromising their sleep.
As the recognition of sleep’s critical role in health grows, sleep coaches like Klein are stepping in to support adults in overcoming obstacles to restful nights. “It’s never too late to change your sleep habits,” she affirms. With tailored strategies and supportive guidance, many individuals are finding the path to improved sleep—and by extension, enhanced quality of life.
