Having trouble sleeping these days? Study says you’re not alone

If you’ve been having trouble sleeping lately, a new study shows that you’re not alone.

The study, commissioned by Sleep Standards, found that nearly 77% of Americans have lost sleep over the coronavirus pandemic.

Conducted at the beginning of the pandemic, the study surveyed 1,014 Americans between ages 18 65 about how the pandemic was affecting their sleep patterns.

Of the respondents who said they are struggling to sleep, 48% said the main reason was because they are feeling anxious about what is happening. Other reasons included worrying about the safety of loved ones, loneliness and an inconsistent schedule.

In addition to having trouble falling asleep, people have taken to social media to share their seemingly strange dreams once they do manage to get some shuteye.

"When waking life is more vivid, so is dream life," psychologist Rubin Naiman told the Los Angeles Times. "My patients routinely increase dreaming at times like this."

Experts note that many Americans reported having vivid, intense dreams in the wake of 9/11 as well.

So, what can you do to get a better night’s rest?

Respondents in the Sleep Standards study said they are turning to things like supplements, reading and yoga and meditation to help them fall asleep.

Here are some tips from experts at the Mayo Clinic on getting better sleep:

Try to stick to a schedule: Experts recommend adults get at least seven hours of sleep each night. Try going to bed at the same time every night to train your body to being used to a sleep schedule.

Be mindful of what you are consuming: What you eat, and when, can impact your sleep. Experts say avoid heavy meals within a couple hours of wanting to go to sleep.

Get some exercise: Doing some sort of physical activity during the day can help you get a better night of sleep. Getting some fresh air may also help.

Try to manage worries: Stress management may help you sleep better. While that can be harder during uncertain times, experts recommend writing down some of your worries on a piece of paper, then setting it aside for tomorrow.