A short history of insomnia and how we became obsessed with sleep

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A Short History of Insomnia and How We Became Obsessed with Sleep

The Ancient World

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French author Marie Darrieussecq writes in her 2023 memoir Sleepless: "The world is divided into those who can sleep and those who can’t." It’s a big call. But insomnia is a well-recorded preoccupation in history. It includes difficulty falling asleep, or staying asleep, and comes with daytime distress and anxiety.

Industrialisation and the Modern Era

As Western countries modernised, things we now associate with insomnia became part of people’s lives. These include artificial lighting and clocks. There was also more ambient noise, and changes in diet and housing. So our sleep habits shifted as a result of this new way of living and working.

The 19th and 20th Centuries

Medical cures for insomnia began to spread – some of them probably effective. For example, in the 19th century Grimault & Co’s "Indian Cigarettes" were advertised in Australia. They contained cannabis. The 19th century was also the birthplace of modern medical ideas about anxiety, which we now know can cause insomnia.

Which Brings Us to Today

In the 21st century, Western living has added two new sleep disturbers to the mix. We drink huge amounts of caffeine. We also go to bed with handheld devices – with their bright lights and constant dopamine hits that stimulate us and stop us sleeping.

The Global Insomnia Market

And if the global insomnia market is anything to go by, insomnia is big business and getting bigger. This is projected to reach US$6.3 billion by 2030, largely driven by increased diagnoses and therapy, as well as the use of sleep aids, such as sleep apps.

Conclusion

Insomnia is a complex and multifaceted problem that has been with us for thousands of years. From ancient civilizations to modern-day society, sleep has been a vital aspect of human life, and its disruption can have serious consequences. As we continue to grapple with the problem of insomnia, it’s essential that we recognize the many factors that contribute to it, and work to develop effective solutions that address its underlying causes.

FAQs

• Q: What are the causes of insomnia?
  A: Insomnia is a complex condition with multiple causes, including psychological, physiological, and environmental factors.
• Q: How common is insomnia?
  A: Insomnia is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide, with estimates suggesting that up to 10% of the global population suffers from chronic insomnia.
• Q: Can insomnia be treated?
  A: Yes, insomnia can be treated, and there are many effective treatments available, including cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), medication, and lifestyle changes.
• Q: How can I improve my sleep?
  A: Improving sleep requires a combination of lifestyle changes, such as establishing a consistent sleep schedule, creating a sleep-conducive environment, and avoiding stimulating activities before bedtime.