Falling Asleep

Lying awake waiting for sleep is frustrating, and the frustration itself makes it harder. These guides cover how long falling asleep should normally take, why it sometimes takes far longer, and the routines and techniques that give sleep the best chance of arriving on its own.

9 guides

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Quick reads and specific questions

How Long Should It Take to Fall Asleep?

How long should it take to fall asleep? For most adults, 10 to 20 minutes. Under 5 may mean you're short of sleep; over 30 most nights is worth addressing.

5 min read

How to Sleep When You're Not Tired

How to sleep when you're not tired: why 'not sleepy' is a different problem, what your body clock and sleep pressure are doing, and whether to go to bed anyway.

6 min read