Chronic Pain and Sleep: Why Pain Keeps You Awake (and What Helps)

The Sleep Matters TeamBlog

Chronic Pain and Sleep

Today we explore answers to questions like “why does pain keep me awake?” and “can poor sleep make pain worse?” Indeed, pain and sleep are closely linked.

Chronic pain (also known as persistent pain) is typically defined as pain that persists beyond the usual healing time, often longer than 3 months. Today, it affects more than 3.5 million people in Australia, or approximately 1 in 5 adults. Chronic pain significantly impairs daily functioning, the ability to work, social relationships, and overall quality of life (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2020). In addition, many people with chronic pain also experience sleep problems which results in them being at higher risk of developing insomnia, or other mental health concerns such as anxiety and depression.

Tired but wired at night? Why you feel exhausted but can’t sleep

Melissa ReeBlog, insomnia, insomnia treatment, sleep tips

“Why am I so tired but can’t sleep?” Many people search for answers to this frustrating problem. You feel exhausted by the end of the day, yet when you go to bed, your mind becomes active and your body feels alert. This experience, often described as “tired but wired,” is one of the most common patterns we see in insomnia. …

Sleep Restriction Therapy for Insomnia: Why it feels hard and how it works

Melissa ReeBlog

“Sleep restriction therapy for insomnia didn’t work for me.” This is a common sentement we hear from people seeking help for insomnia. Often, it is said with frustration, disappointment, or self-doubt, especially after someone has genuinely tried to follow the rules and found the experience exhausting or unsustainable. Importantly, current research suggests that this experience is not unusual, and it …

How Sleep Cleans the Brain and Protects Brain Health

Melissa ReeBlog

Turns out the right kind of “brain washing” is very good for you Most people know that sleep helps us feel more alert, less irritable, and better able to concentrate. What many people don’t realise is that while we sleep, the brain is doing something essential for long-term health: it is clearing away waste products that build up during the …

Sleep and Neurodivergence: Unique Features, Challenges, and Strategies 

Melissa ReeBlog

Sleep is universally important, but for people who are neurodivergent (for example, individuals with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, sensory processing differences, or other neurodivergent traits), sleep can present particular challenges. Understanding those unique features and tailoring strategies accordingly can make a significant difference in their sleep health and overall well-being.  We thank Tabitha Moynagh for her excellent insights, some of which we summarise …

From Nighttime to Bright Times: How better sleep can lift us out of low mood

Melissa ReeBlog, insomnia, insomnia treatment, sleep facts

Sleep and Mood Poor sleep and low mood often occur together, and this link is well supported by scientific research. Many people notice that when they sleep poorly, emotions feel harder to manage and stressors feel heavier than usual. Sleep difficulties such as insomnia do more than create fatigue. They influence the brain systems involved in emotional regulation, motivation, and …

Introducing Our comprehensive sleep health Assessment: A holistic way to understand and Improve your sleep

Melissa ReeBlog, insomnia, sleep disorder

More than a sleep study – a roadmap to better sleep Poor sleep is more than just feeling tired—it can affect your mood, energy, performance, and overall well-being. In fact, research shows that over 30% of Australian adults experience poor sleep health. If you’ve been struggling with sleep, suspect a sleep disorder like insomnia or obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), or …

The impact of Shift-work on sleep

ElsBlog

The Impact of Shift-Work on Sleep

Optimising Sleep for Shift Workers The impact of Shift-work on sleep is a growing concern in industries like healthcare, emergency services, hospitality, transport, and mining. Regularly working outside the traditional 9-to-5 routine can take a toll on your rest and overall wellbeing. While not everyone who works shifts will develop a serious difficulties, research suggests that about 1 in 4 …

Do You Know What a Good Night’s Sleep Looks Like?

CarloBlog, sleep facts, sleep tips, sleep tips

Healthy sleep

“Struggling with sleep? Simple changes in your routine can make a big difference.” Dr Melissa Ree, Clinical Psychologist Perth Most of us know that sleep is important, but have you ever thought about what actually makes for a healthy night’s sleep? It’s not just about the number of hours you spend in bed – quality, consistency, and timing all play …