The culprit may be artificial blue light.
Prior to the invention of the light bulb, blue light after dark or any light for that matter, was practically non-existant. But why is the culprit artificial blue light and not just any old light? This part is crucial in understanding the modern insomnia epidemic. 1
Researchers have identified that blue light has the greatest influence out of all wavelengths in disrupting the pineal gland from adequately releasing melatonin, a powerful hormone which begins the sleep cycle. 3
Modern electronic devices such as smart phones, television screens, and computer monitors all emit copious amounts of artificial blue light and when used at night could be the reason for why many suffer from insomnia. 4
What can be done?
Blue blocking glasses can be worn after sundown, these effectively block almost all blue light and can be purchased for cheap on sites like amazon and even as prescription lenses from a retailer. As long as the lense is orange it will block blue light.
f.lux is a program which aims to align electronic devices more so with the day night cycle. At sundown, dimming the intensity of your computer monitor. 5
Sleep well, Steemians!