A growing number of adults are seeking professional sleep coaching to combat anxieties and improve sleep habits, mirroring a trend previously seen primarily with newborns and their parents. A recent Gallup poll indicated that 57 percent of Americans believe they would feel better with more sleep, a significant jump from 43 percent in 2013, highlighting a nationwide struggle to achieve restful nights. Only about a quarter of those surveyed reported getting the recommended eight or more hours of sleep per night, a drop from 34 percent a decade earlier, signaling a performance slump reminiscent of a team struggling to maintain its winning record.

Sleep professionals are now stepping up to address this underserved adult population, aiming to help individuals optimize their daytime and nighttime routines for better sleep. One sleep consultant, who previously focused on children, recognized the increasing demand and shifted her focus to adults. She stated that it's "entirely possible to transform daytime and nighttime habits to optimize for good sleep," offering a game plan for those looking to improve their sleep scores.

The increased demand for sleep coaching reflects a broader societal shift, as individuals grapple with personal and political worries that interfere with their ability to relax. Like an athlete who needs to train to improve their performance, true relaxation requires discipline and training. The ability to disconnect from phones and set aside anxieties is a skill that can be developed with the help of a sleep coach.

The current situation presents an opportunity for sleep professionals to make a significant impact on the well-being of adults. Just as a coach helps athletes reach their full potential, sleep coaches can guide individuals toward achieving their dream of waking up rested. The next step for many is to seek out these professionals and begin the process of transforming their sleep habits, aiming for a nightly performance that rivals the sleep habits of champions.