“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
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
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
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 …
Give yourself the gift of Sleep during the End-of-Year Rush
Simple, Evidence-Based ways to protect your sleep this summer holiday season
Introducing Our comprehensive sleep health Assessment: A holistic way to understand and Improve your sleep
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 …
Feeling Flat or Off? Your Sleep Might Be the Missing Piece.
In a world that never switches off, it’s easy to let sleep slide. With our attention being pulled in every direction, rising stress levels, and mental health services under strain, it’s all too easy to treat sleep like an optional extra. But it’s not a luxury – it’s essential. As part of Sleep Health Week 2025, the team at Sleep …
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?
“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 …
Worried about missing your sleep window?: What It Really Means for Your Sleep
Missing your sleep window? Learn what it really means for your rest, and how to approach it with strategies to ease anxiety and improve your sleep.
Insomnia and physical health
Here, we look at the relationship between insomnia and physical health outcomes, the mechanisms at play, and the importance of addressing sleep-related worries.
The World of Dreaming
Dr Melissa Ree, director at Sleep Matters, spoke on the radio today about dreams. Listen to the short segment here or read on below for some fascinating facts about dreams and nightmares.