There is a critical distinction between having a medical sleep disorder and living with what Nancy Rothstein, The Sleep Ambassador, calls “disordered sleep.” While sleep disorders like insomnia, sleep apnea, and narcolepsy require diagnosis and treatment from a medical specialist, disordered sleep stems from poor habits and behaviors that compromise both the quality and quantity of your rest.
Writing for Thrive Global, Nancy traces the origin of this important distinction to her early work as a sleep educator. Inspired by the way the medical community differentiates between eating disorders and disordered eating, she recognized that the same parallel exists in sleep health — and that addressing both categories is essential for genuine well-being.
Key Takeaways
- Disordered sleep vs. sleep disorders: Disordered sleep refers to poor sleep habits and behaviors — late-night screen time, inconsistent bedtimes, caffeine before bed — while sleep disorders are medical conditions requiring professional diagnosis and treatment.
- The statistics are alarming: According to the CDC, at least 35% of U.S. adults get less than the recommended 7 to 9 hours of sleep. The National Sleep Foundation reports that 45% of Americans say poor sleep affects their daily activities.
- Habits can compound into disorders: Chronic disordered sleep can evolve into clinical conditions like insomnia, and has been linked to depression, weight gain, and even early-onset dementia.
- Start by listening to your body: How do you feel in the morning? That’s the most honest indicator of whether your sleep is truly restorative.
No one can sleep for you. Whether you need to address disordered sleep habits or seek evaluation for a possible sleep disorder, making sleep a priority is the foundation of living well. Discover practical strategies on our resources page and learn about sleep education programs through our services and courses.
Read the Full Article on Thrive Global →