Why Sleep Is Non-Negotiable
Sleep is the foundation of good health—just as critical as nutrition and exercise. Millions of Americans treat it like an afterthought, sacrificing hours of rest to meet work demands, binge-watch shows, or scroll endlessly through social media.
Here is the sad truth – chronic sleep deprivation is wreaking havoc on your patients. Poor sleep is linked to an increased risk of obesity, heart disease, weakened immunity, and even cognitive decline. Studies show that people who regularly get less than six hours of sleep per night are significantly more likely to suffer from high blood pressure, diabetes, and depression. Every doctor has patients that suffer from lack of sleep.
Even before COVID, just a few countries ranked lower than the U.S. in total sleep per night. An amazing 27% of Americans say they are not well-rested, with over 1.2 million workdays and $14.3 billion in economic losses lost annually due to lack of sleep.
Lack of sleep isn’t just a personal health issue—it’s a societal crisis. It’s estimated that drowsy driving causes over 100,000 crashes per year in the U.S., and insufficient sleep costs the economy $411 billion annually in lost productivity.
So, if sleep is so important, why aren’t patients prioritizing it?
America’s Sleep Deprivation Epidemic
The statistics are alarming: one in three Americans isn’t getting the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep per night, according to the CDC. Sleep disorders like insomnia, restless leg syndrome, and sleep apnea are on the rise, and stress-induced sleeplessness is now the norm rather than the exception.
A few decades ago, sleep deprivation was seen as a badge of honor—proof that you were working hard and pushing limits. But today, science is making it clear: cutting corners on sleep comes with severe long-term consequences.
Ironically, as sleep issues have surged, so has the use of prescription sleep medications—a dangerous trend that’s causing more harm than good.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, “Some of the most serious potential problems associated with chronic sleep deprivation are high blood pressure, diabetes, heart attack, heart failure or stroke. Other potential problems include obesity, depression, impairment in immunity, and lower sex drive.” That study, in itself, is depressing.
Interestingly, more chiropractors are now incorporating wellness-focused approaches for their patients who are struggling with these conditions. Chiropractors using CBD, for instance, combine natural solutions within their practices to help address sleep-related issues, offering a safer and more sustainable alternative to harmful pharmaceuticals.
The Dark Side of Prescription Sleep Medications
When faced with chronic sleep issues, people get desperate. Americans turn to prescription sleep aids like Ambien, Lunesta, and benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax, Valium, Ativan). These medications are widely prescribed, yet they come with a host of risks that often outweigh the benefits.
1. They Don’t Provide Natural, Restorative Sleep
Prescription sleep meds may knock you out, but they don’t help you achieve true deep sleep. These drugs often suppress REM sleep, the stage responsible for memory consolidation, emotional processing, and brain detoxification.
So while you might feel like you’re “sleeping,” your brain isn’t getting the full restoration it needs. That’s why many users report grogginess, memory fog, and sluggishness even after a full night’s rest.
2. They Are Highly Addictive
Many prescription sleep aids, especially benzodiazepines, can be incredibly habit-forming. Tolerance builds quickly, meaning you need higher and higher doses to achieve the same effect. And when you try to stop? Withdrawal symptoms like rebound insomnia, anxiety, and even seizures can make quitting a nightmare.
A 2022 study found that over 30% of long-term sleep medication users develop dependence—meaning they physically and psychologically struggle to sleep without it. Natural solutions like CBD gummies for sleep have gained attention as safer alternatives that don’t carry the same risks of dependency.
3. Increased Risk of Dementia and Early Death
One of the most chilling findings in recent sleep research? Long-term use of prescription sleep aids is linked to a higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease and premature death.
A major study published in The BMJ found that regular users of sleeping pills had a 4.6 times higher risk of early mortality compared to those who didn’t take them. The reason? These drugs interfere with brain plasticity, slow down cognitive function, and increase the risk of falls, accidents, and respiratory depression.
4. Dangerous Side Effects (Including “Sleep Walking” and Memory Blackouts)
Many prescription sleep medications—especially Ambien—are notorious for causing bizarre and dangerous sleep behaviors. Reports of people sleepwalking, sleep-driving, and even cooking full meals in the middle of the night with no memory of it are disturbingly common.
Other side effects include:
✅ Increased anxiety & depression
✅ Heart palpitations
✅ Next-day grogginess (a.k.a. the “Ambien Hangover”)
✅ Increased risk of falls and fractures (especially in older adults)
With so many risks, it’s clear that relying on prescription sleep aids is not a long-term solution.
Natural, Science-Backed Alternatives to Prescription Sleep Medications
The good news – Chiropractors can help solve the issue. Your patients don’t need to turn to risky pharmaceuticals to get better sleep. There are natural, effective alternatives that support healthy sleep cycles without harmful side effects. Many chiropractors using CBD report combining professional methods with targeted solutions to improve patient outcomes without relying on pharmaceuticals.
1. Prioritize Sleep Hygiene
Small lifestyle adjustments can make a huge difference in the body’s ability to fall and stay asleep. Try:
✅ Keeping a consistent sleep schedule (even on weekends)
✅ Avoiding screens & blue light at least 60 minutes before bed
✅ Keeping your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet
✅ Reducing caffeine & alcohol intake, especially in the evening
2. Try Natural Sleep Aids (Like CBD & Magnesium)
Instead of sedative prescription meds, consider natural supplements that promote relaxation without dependency:
✅ CBD Sleep Gummies: Cannabidiol (CBD) interacts with your endocannabinoid system to calm the nervous system, reduce anxiety, and promote deeper sleep. Unlike THC, it won’t get you high or impair cognitive function.
✅ Magnesium: This essential mineral helps relax muscles and regulate melatonin production, improving sleep quality.
✅ L-Theanine: Found in green tea, this amino acid promotes relaxation and reduces stress-induced insomnia.
✅ Melatonin (Used Sparingly): While effective in the short term, it should not be overused, as it can disrupt natural melatonin production.
3. Manage Stress and Anxiety
Stress is one of the biggest culprits behind poor sleep. Incorporating mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing, or gentle yoga can help lower cortisol levels and create a bedtime ritual that signals your body it’s time to rest.
Final Thoughts: Prioritize Sleep, Not Pills
America’s sleep crisis is real, and prescription medications are only making the problem worse. Instead of masking the issue with pharmaceuticals, it’s time to address the root causes of our sleep problems—stress, poor habits, and an overstimulated society. Amidst this crisis, many are turning to solutions like CBD for sleep to restore healthier habits and improve their quality of life.
If you’re struggling with sleep, take a holistic approach. Improve your sleep hygiene, explore natural remedies, and prioritize rest as a non-negotiable pillar of health. Your body—and brain—will thank you.
JOE KRYSZAK, MBA, is president of Stirling Professional CBD, the brand built by and for chiropractors and professional offices, giving back to the chiropractic industry. Since 2014, Stirling has grown, extracted and produced the purest CBD available. Stirling Professional brings amazing CBD+ products to your patients with the industry-leading lineup of 2,500-mg CBD lotions, THC and THC-free capsules and gels, and four great solutions for better sleep. We bring affordable solutions to your patients. For more information, go to stirlingprofessional.com.
