Hello, everyone!

Did you sleep well last night? In our busy city, many of us face challenges when it comes to sleep. Have you ever found it hard to fall asleep, stay asleep, or wake up early in the morning? If so, you’re not alone. Recent surveys conducted by the department of Psychiatry CUHK indicated that around 30% of people in Hong Kong experience insomnia. This is a significant issue that can affect our daily lives in many ways.

Sleep is crucial for maintaining our overall health. It plays a vital role in helping us recover from fatigue, manage stress, enhance our mood, and even improve our memory. When we don’t get enough sleep, it can lead to a host of physical and mental health problems such as increased risk of anxiety, depression, and also chronic illnesses.

Despite the importance of sleep, there are many misconceptions surrounding it. Some people believe they can make up for lost sleep during the week by sleeping in on the weekends. Others find themselves scrolling through their phones in bed, thinking it will help them feel tired enough to sleep. Unfortunately, these habits often do more harm than good. They can interfere with our body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, making it even harder to get the rest we need.

When it comes to treating insomnia, there are both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches available. The first-line treatment recommended by experts is cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I). This therapy focuses on addressing both the behavioral and cognitive factors that contribute to chronic insomnia. Research shows that CBT-I is just as effective as medication, but its effects last longer and help reduce the use of sleep drugs.

However, access to CBT-I is limit. Unfortunately, fewer than 5% of insomnia patients have ever received this type of therapy. A recent survey of healthcare workers conducted by our group revealed that only 2% of them had received formal training in CBT-I. This lack of resources and trained professionals can make it challenging for people to get the help they need.

To address this pressing issue, the Department of Psychiatry at the Chinese University of Hong Kong has teamed up with five local NGO to launch the Jockey Club Sleep Well Project, funded by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust. Our mission is to raise awareness about sleep health and provide much-needed support for those experiencing sleep issues, including access to CBT-I and comprehensive sleep assessments.

The Jockey Club Sleep Well Project is Hong Kong's first community program specifically focused on sleep issues. This project developed an online platform and offer evidence-based strategies and tools designed to assist individuals in managing their sleep challenges. Additionally, we host in-person lectures, workshops, and community events to promote sleep health education and foster a better understanding of the importance of sleep.

One of the unique features of our project is the stepped care model we offer. This model provides different levels of support tailored to individual needs. Participants can begin by assessing their sleep and mental health through our online platform or mobile app. This initial assessment helps identify the specific issues they may be facing.

For those starting out, we can provide self-help resources and guided online courses. If someone has moderate insomnia symptoms, they will be paired with a sleep coach— a trained healthcare professional who will guide them through the online course and provide support along the way.

For individuals with more severe sleep issues, we can arrange interventions with a clinical psychologist to provide more personalized treatment.

To everyone listening, it’s important to remember that sleep problems cannot simply be resolved by catching up on sleep during the weekends or through occasional naps. The reasons for the sleep disturbances can vary widely from person to person, and medication isn’t the only solution. You don’t have to face these challenges alone. If you or someone you know is struggling with sleep issues or has questions about sleep disorders, you can try to explore the Jockey Club Sleep Well Project. You can either visit our website or download the app in the apple store or google play.

Sleep is not just a luxury; it’s a vital component of our health and well-being. By prioritizing sleep health, we can enhance our quality of life, boost our productivity, and maintain better physical and mental health.

So, as you go about your day, take a moment to think about your sleep habits. Are there changes you could make to improve your sleep? Remember, a good night’s sleep is within your reach.