Sleep

Everyone needs sleep, but many of us don't get enough. Here's the latest news on sleep, including the health effects of getting too little or too much, tips on getting more rest, and the science behind why we slumber.

Related Topics: Happiness, Memory, Anxiety, Babies

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photo of a woman in with long, dark hair lying in bed under a large blanket. She holds both hands over her face as if struggling to sleep

Human brain looks years 'older' after just one night without sleep, small study shows

By Rebecca Sohn published

A study suggests that just one night of sleep deprivation may be linked to structural changes in the brain, similar to those seen in aging.

Mother and daughter snuggling on sofa, child is sleeping on mothers lap

What is sleep talking? We look at the science

By Amy Arthur published

Discover the science behind sleep talking, a behavior that over half the general population experiences at some point in their life.

woman drinking a glass of wine at night as she looks at her smartphone

How does alcohol affect sleep?

By Joanne Lewsley published

A nightcap can often make people feel tired, but how does alcohol affect sleep?

Positive blonde middle-aged woman psychologist talking to girl patient.

What is sleep hypnosis and does it really work?

By Lou Mudge published

Sleep hypnosis could be a potential therapy for sleep disorders, but more research is needed.

woman asleep holding a cup of coffee

How does caffeine affect sleep?

By Louise Bond published

It may boost alertness and concentration, but how does caffeine affect sleep?

woman struggling with anxiety in bed

Can't sleep? An expert reveals why anxiety may be worse at night

By Louise Bond published

Experiencing anxiety at night can interfere with sleep.

woman looking tired sitting on sofa

Hypersomnia: Symptoms, causes and treatments

By Anna Gora published

REFERENCE Excessive sleepiness could be a sign of a condition known as hypersomnia.

woman turning off an alarm clock

What is a circadian rhythm?

By Lou Mudge published

A circadian rhythm refers to a person's sleep-wake pattern over 24 hours.

Abstract static lined background

Can white noise help you sleep better?

By Louise Bond published

Soothing sounds can be relaxing, but can white noise help you sleep better?

woman heading out for an early morning run

Does short sleeper syndrome really exist?

By Joe Phelan published

REFERENCE Some people, from Barack Obama to Elon Musk, claim to sleep for very few hours each night.

woman taking a nap with her cat

Is napping good for you? We ask the experts

By Joe Phelan published

Is a daytime snooze something to be avoided or embraced?

white woman with long red hair sleeping under a grey weighted blanket on a bed

Weighted-blanket use may boost sleep hormone melatonin, small study hints

By Nicoletta Lanese published

A small study links weighted-blanket use at bedtime to increased melatonin production.

Young African American woman sleeping in modern bedroom with eyes closed

Is sleeping too much bad for you?

By Maddy Biddulph published

Reference Sleep is an important pillar of health — but is sleeping too much bad for you?

A woman in bed covering her face with her hands

Why am I always tired if I get enough sleep?

By Robert Roy Britt published

Are you always tired? You may sleep eight hours every night, but your sleep may not be efficient. Here's how to get better sleep, every night.

A woman sleeping with an eyemask on.

Can you make up for lost sleep?

By Robert Roy Britt last updated

Getting a few extra hours on the weekend cannot make up for all the harms of being sleep-deprived during the week.

Employees walking to work in the city at sunrise

Why it's time to abolish daylight saving time

By Robert Roy Britt last updated

Congress should set clocks permanently to standard time, for better sleep, health and public safety

Young woman asleep in bed with CBD oil and capsules beside her

What are the best supplements for sleep?

By Jack Phillips published

Reference Discover the best supplements for sleep concerns so you can doze off every single night

Why do men get sleepy after sex? Image shows man sleeping in bed

Why do guys get sleepy after sex?

By Melinda Wenner last updated

Ever wondered why guys get sleepy after sex? Here’s what the science says…

A person asleep. The best sleep apps can help you get a better night's rest

The best sleep apps

By Gavin Newsham published

With the help of a sleep psychologist, we run through the best sleep apps for a good night's rest.

woman sleeping in bed with TV and bedside lamp on

Sleeping with a light on may be bad for your heart and blood sugar

By Nicoletta Lanese published

Sleeping in a moderately lit room may have health effects, small study shows.