Many aspects of modern life, including screen use and shift work, can confuse the body’s natural sleep and wake cycle. Up to 19% of adults in the U.S. report not getting enough rest or sleep every day. Chronic lack of sleep can harm both your mental and physical health.
A range of chemicals and hormones circulate in the body to help control when and for how long people sleep. One such hormone, melatonin, is produced by a gland within the brain in response to darkness. It helps cue the body that it’s time to sleep.
