Sunday Insomnia - Disturbances Of Sleep Timing: Sleep Disorders
Content provided by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School
Sunday insomnia
It's common for people to have trouble falling asleep on Sunday nights. While anxiety about work or school on Monday is a potential cause, often the most important factor is weekend changes in sleep habits. When someone stays up later Friday night and sleeps in Saturday morning, he or she is primed to stay up even later Saturday night and sleep in the next day. By Sunday evening, the body's clock is programmed to stay up late.
People who have developed a pattern of Sunday insomnia may feel their anxiety mount as they anticipate a difficult night ahead. The solution to the Sunday blues is to maintain a weekday rising schedule on the weekends. When self-discipline fails, going to bed early on Sunday only results in frustration. A more effective approach is to do something pleasant until drowsiness sets in and get up when the alarm goes off on Monday morning no matter how little sleep you've gotten.
| Last updated: | January 23, 2007 |
|---|
Medical content reviewed by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School. Harvard Health Publications, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Used with permission of StayWell.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, Use of Content Agreement and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Related Articles
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
