SEATTLE - Is the financial crisis causing you to lose sleep? A recent survey says the majority of us are stressed out and sleep deprived because of it.
The economy is the biggest concern right now with most Americans. One Seattle sleep expert says even more than after 9/11, stress is keeping people awake at night.
Homes values are down, the stock market is down and unemployment is up. It's enough to keep you up when you want to be asleep.
"I think we see more people concerned in a way that is troubling than we ever have before," said Dr. Ralph Pascualy.
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Pascualy is with Swedish Medical Center and the director of Sleep Medicine Associates. Since the economy went sour, he's seen an influx of people seeking sleep solutions.
"I think there has been a massive loss of trust in things that Americans took for granted," said Pascualy.
People's minds are racing, even those who've always been good sleepers are having difficulties. And while sleep troubles usually trend toward women, this kind of stress is robbing both sexes of their sleep.
"Compared to previous times, we're seeing more men who are having trouble with sleep and coming for help, which is different," said Pascualy.
So what does the doctor order? For one, make a plan to take control of the things you can. Avoidance will only keep you awake.
"We have people who simply aren't opening their brokerage statements, aren't opening their credit card bills and just letting them stack. This does not help you sleep," said Pascualy
Pascualy says if you have to worry, set aside time during the day. Don't worry in bed. Communicate with your family. Talk about the meaning of what's happening now and how we're planning on working through it.
Also, focus on exercise to de-stress and keep a consistent sleep schedule - go to bed and get up the same time every day.
The doctor says if you try these tips and notice your sleep troubles are affecting the way you function during the day, that's the time to get professional help.
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