What is one recommended sleep hygiene practice for patients with insomnia?

Avoiding caffeine and alcohol within 6 hours of bedtime is a strongly recommended sleep hygiene practice for patients experiencing insomnia. Caffeine is a stimulant that can interfere with the ability to fall asleep as well as disrupt the overall quality of sleep. Similarly, alcohol may initially help people fall asleep faster, but it can lead to fragmented sleep and frequent awakenings during the night. By eliminating these substances in the hours leading up to bedtime, patients can improve their chances of achieving a more restful and uninterrupted sleep cycle.

Good sleep hygiene practices, like this one, focus on creating a conducive environment and routine for sleep. Other practices include establishing a consistent sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and engaging in relaxing pre-sleep activities. Each of these strategies can help improve sleep quality and potentially mitigate insomnia symptoms.