Mar 20 β€’ 06:16 UTC πŸ‡¬πŸ‡§ UK Mirror

Warning to anyone using sleep apps as some told to turn them off

Experts caution that sleep apps, while popular, can sometimes exacerbate stress in individuals with insomnia.

A recent study highlighted the potential downsides of using sleep apps, particularly for individuals struggling with insomnia. Although these applications are designed to track and improve sleep patterns, they may actually lead to increased anxiety for some users. Experts warn that the sleep data produced by these apps may not always be accurate, potentially misleading users about their sleep quality and contributing to sleep troubles rather than alleviating them.

The usage of sleep-related smartphone applications has surged in recent years, coinciding with heightened public interest in sleep health. Researchers from Norway noted that many of these apps now come integrated with wearable technology, such as smartwatches and fitness trackers, which collect data on sleep duration and quality. However, despite their growing popularity, there's a concern that these apps primarily serve to keep users focused on their sleep issues, which can be counterproductive for those experiencing insomnia.

The study involved a diverse group of participants and indicated that while some users might benefit from the insights provided by sleep tracking, the overwhelming data can lead to stress and anxiety for others. Therefore, it is recommended that individuals, especially those with existing sleep challenges, carefully consider whether the use of such apps is beneficial to their overall sleep health or if they should reduce or eliminate their usage altogether.

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