This means the melatonin itself isn’t helping them sleep and this initial benefit typically doesn’t last over the long term.įinally, people can become psychologically dependent on taking the supplement and become afraid of what will happen to their sleep if they stop taking melatonin. Second, there is a strong placebo effect when it comes to insomnia treatment. Believing that melatonin will improve sleep can help people feel more relaxed when they get into bed and they stop trying so hard to fall asleep. I take those “yesses” with a grain of salt for a few reasons:įirst, if melatonin supplements are working, a patient shouldn’t need to see a psychologist like me for help with sleep. Sometimes they say no – but sometimes they respond with an emphatic “Yes!” Sometimes, they mention a friend who recommended a specific brand that’s supposed to be “really strong.” Then I ask them if taking melatonin has worked for them. When I ask patients why they use melatonin, many tell me they want something that is “natural” and doesn’t have side effects. Melatonin isn’t the first one and it surely won’t be the last.Īs a clinical psychologist, I treat people with chronic insomnia disorder, which is defined as poor sleep at least three nights per week for at least three months. This dramatic increase in use of melatonin reflects our inclination to try “shortcuts” to get a good night’s sleep.
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