Boots Online Doctor has launched a new Insomnia Treatment service, giving adults struggling with chronic sleep difficulties access to expert advice, treatment options and practical guidance on better sleep within 24 hours.
Insomnia affects around one in three adults in the UK1 and can lead to fatigue, reduced concentration, and long-term health risks such as heart disease, obesity and diabetes. Sleep challenges can feel especially tricky over the festive season, when busy schedules, late nights and disrupted routines can make it harder to get a restful night.
Dr Clare Rooms, GP and Clinical Lead for Insomnia at Boots Online Doctor, said: “While occasional disrupted sleep over the festive period is normal, it’s important to look out for signs of longer-term sleep difficulties. These include persistent sleep issues beyond a couple of weeks, tiredness affecting daily function, symptoms that don’t improve despite sleep hygiene measures, or developing anxiety around bedtime.
“In the long-term, insomnia affects more than your sleep – it can impact your health, relationships, and even your career. It’s important not to ignore persistent sleep difficulties, as effective support is available.”
To help people through the festive season, Dr Rooms shares her top five sleep hygiene tips:
- “Don’t stay in bed awake: If you can’t fall asleep within 20 minutes, get up and do something relaxing, like reading. Lying awake in bed can ‘train’ your brain that bed’s for being awake, making sleep difficulties worse.
- “Keep a consistent wake-up time: Even during the holidays, try to get up at the same time every day. Lie-ins might feel good, but they can mess with your sleep cycle.
- “Limit alcohol before bed: Alcohol can reduce the restorative REM phase of sleep, make you restless and increase snoring.
- “Avoid heavy meals close to bedtime: A light snack’s fine, but heavy meals can raise blood sugar, cause overheating and trigger indigestion.
- “Get fresh air and exercise: Exposure to daylight helps regulate melatonin levels, and physical activity – even a walk after Christmas lunch – supports good sleep patterns.”
Those experiencing persistent sleep disturbances should consult their GP. Alternatively, the new Boots Online Doctor Insomnia Treatment service provides access to expert advice and treatment. The service includes an in-depth online questionnaire reviewed by clinicians, with a tailored treatment plan that may include prescription medication if appropriate. Patients can collect prescriptions from Boots stores or have them delivered to their home.
The service also provides practical sleep hygiene guidance and points to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) resources, promoting a holistic approach to sleep health.
For more information or to access the service, visit Boots Online Doctor here.
*Access to treatment is subject to an online consultation with a clinician to assess suitability. Subject to availability. Charges apply.
