I Recommend Swapping True Crime for Cartoons-Here’s Why Your Bedtime Habits Are Affecting Your Sleep
I Recommend Swapping True Crime for Cartoons- Here’s Why Your Bedtime Habits Are Affecting Your Sleep
If you’re struggling with sleep, you’re not alone. As a psychiatrist in Mumbai, I see more and more patients coming in with a similar concern: “I can’t fall asleep easily” or “My mind won’t shut off at night.”
This trend is more than just insomnia – it reflects a deeper issue with how our brains are being overstimulated, especially during the hours we’re supposed to be winding down.
Sleep Disorders Are Becoming Routine
In today’s hyper-connected world, sleep disorders have become increasingly common. The root of the problem? Digital distractions that don’t respect boundaries. Work emails, WhatsApp notifications, news alerts, and even gripping true crime documentaries don’t stay in their lane – they follow us straight into bed.
As I often explain to my patients, our minds need time to slow down, but instead, they’re being triggered to stay alert. One patient told me she was hooked on nightly true crime binge sessions – until she noticed she couldn’t sleep soundly anymore. Out of curiosity, she swapped the thrillers for cartoons – yes, cartoons – and within days, she started sleeping better.
My Recommendation as a Psychiatrist
If you’re battling insomnia, difficulty falling asleep, or waking up unrested, it’s time to evaluate your bedtime screen habits. Here’s what I often suggest to my patients:
Avoid emotionally intense content after 9 PM
- Create a calming bedtime routine (reading, journaling, light shows)
- Use blue light filters or avoid screens an hour before bed
- Swap out news or thrillers for shows that are slow-paced, humorous, or nostalgic
A small change in what you watch before bed can make a big difference in how you feel the next day.
Looking for Help with Sleep or Anxiety?
Dr. Anjalika Atrey is a leading psychiatrist in Mumbai, specializing in stress, sleep disorders, anxiety, and depression. Book a consultation to explore personalized mental health solutions.
Want to know more read the article featuring Dr Anjalika Atrey:
https://www.vogue.in/content/i-swapped-true-crime-for-cartoon-and-finally-started-sleeping-again
