The need for quality sleep has prompted an increasing number of adults to seek the help of sleep coaches, especially as anxiety surrounding sleep issues intensifies. A recent Gallup poll revealed that in 2023, 57 percent of Americans believe they would feel better with more sleep, a notable rise from 43 percent in 2013. Despite these sentiments, only about a quarter of those surveyed reported achieving the recommended eight or more hours of sleep per night, a decrease from 34 percent a decade ago.
As adults grapple with sleep challenges, sleep coaches are stepping in to provide tailored support. Historically, these professionals focused primarily on newborns and their parents, but the growing demand for adult sleep assistance has opened new avenues for their expertise. This shift is especially relevant as many individuals turn to their devices late at night, engaging in behaviors such as doomscrolling, which can further exacerbate sleep issues.
Understanding Sleep Patterns and Habits
According to sleep consultant Elana Klein, clients typically fall into one of two categories when seeking help. The first group consists of those dealing with significant life events—such as work stress, the birth of a child, or the loss of a loved one—that disrupt their sleep patterns. The second group includes individuals who have faced chronic sleep issues since childhood, often identifying themselves as insomniacs.
Klein emphasizes that sleep disturbances frequently manifest due to a combination of daytime habits and environmental factors. For instance, one of her clients discovered that late-night eating was causing them to wake frequently throughout the night. Another client, who was highly active and consumed large amounts of water, realized that her nighttime awakenings were linked to frequent bathroom visits.
Klein notes that many people overlook the underlying causes of their sleep problems, focusing solely on nighttime routines. She often begins her coaching sessions by addressing basic sleep hygiene, which includes creating a conducive sleeping environment. Many clients believe they have optimal setups, yet their habits might contradict this perception.
Reframing Perspectives on Sleep
A significant aspect of Klein’s coaching involves helping clients reframe their beliefs about sleep. Many hold the misconception that sleeping less equates to greater productivity or resilience. Klein encourages her clients to explore new narratives about their sleep needs, promoting the idea that sleep is essential for overall well-being.
Coaching typically spans 12 sessions over three months, during which Klein stays in touch with clients via texts to provide ongoing support. This consistent communication is vital, as friends and coworkers often grow weary of hearing about sleep struggles. Klein highlights that self-judgment can dramatically hinder sleep quality, as individuals often ruminate on their perceived failures during the night.
Klein also addresses the modern challenge of overstimulation from screens and social media, which can flood the brain with cortisol and lead to heightened anxiety. She encourages clients to allocate specific times for worrying, allowing them to process their concerns without letting them interfere with sleep.
In her experience, it is never too late for individuals to change their sleep habits. Klein asserts that many people are capable of transforming their situations and reclaiming restful sleep by addressing both their internal and external environments.
As the demand for sleep coaching continues to rise, professionals like Klein are dedicated to helping adults navigate their sleep challenges, ultimately fostering healthier sleep patterns and improved quality of life.
