She Strengthens

The Hidden Cost of Insomnia

A Nation’s Sleepless Nights

Lying awake at night, desperate to drift off to sleep, is a frustrating experience many of us can relate to. But did you know that sleep deprivation is also costing us dearly? A recent study revealed that the British economy loses a staggering £40 million ($51.5 million) annually due to sleep deprivation, resulting in sick days, health problems, and stress. This trend is not unique to the UK, with similar effects seen in the US, Canada, Germany, and Japan.

Personal Costs

As someone who has struggled with insomnia for years, I wondered how much my sleepless nights were costing me. Despite having my health problems under control, I still experience periods of debilitating insomnia. The physical toll of a lack of sleep can lead to costly sick days, as we’re unable to function on zero sleep. Moreover, insomnia can impair our judgment, memory, and coordination, making us less productive at work.

The Financial Potholes of Insomnia

Beyond the cost of sick days, insomnia can lead to other financial pitfalls. In the early hours, boredom can drive us to make impulsive purchases online. I’ve fallen victim to this trap, buying items I wouldn’t normally consider during the day. Additionally, the quest for a good night’s sleep can lead to a long list of costly solutions, from natural sleeping pills to specialist pillows and meditation audiobooks.

My Personal Costs

When I tally up my expenses, I’m shocked by the amount I’ve spent trying to combat insomnia. Herbal sleeping pills, lavender essential oil, sleep body lotion, and meditation audiobooks have all added up to a significant amount. And that’s not counting the cost of my specialist mattress, high-tog duvet, breathable bed linen, and yoga classes.

Breaking the Cycle

Over the past three months, I’ve made a conscious effort to curb my mindless spending, particularly on clothes and midnight shopping. Here are some tips that have helped me:

• Avoid saving login details or credit card details on your phone to reduce the temptation of impulse buying.
• Save items for later to avoid making purchases you might regret in the morning.
• Create an insomnia tool kit with activities to distract yourself from sleeplessness, such as reading, watching films, or meditating.

By making these changes, I’ve been able to reduce my spending and improve my sleep habits. If insomnia is an ongoing problem for you, don’t hesitate to seek advice from your doctor before investing in costly sleep remedies.