15 Expert-Approved Habits to Enhance Your Sleep Quality

13. The Role of Sleep Aids - When to Seek Help

For some individuals, despite their best efforts, achieving restful sleep remains elusive. In such cases, sleep aids may be considered as a temporary solution. However, it's important to approach sleep aids with caution and seek professional guidance to ensure their safe and effective use. Over-the-counter sleep aids, such as antihistamines, can be effective for short-term relief of sleep difficulties. However, they can cause side effects such as drowsiness and impaired cognitive function. Prescription sleep medications, such as benzodiazepines or non-benzodiazepine hypnotics, may be recommended for individuals with chronic insomnia. These medications should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as they can be habit-forming and may have side effects. In addition to medication, alternative sleep aids such as melatonin supplements or herbal remedies like valerian root may be considered. These options are generally considered safer but should still be used with caution. It's important to address the underlying causes of sleep difficulties and use sleep aids as a temporary measure while implementing lifestyle changes to improve sleep quality. By seeking professional guidance, you can ensure the safe and effective use of sleep aids and achieve more restful nights.