This isn’t necessarily a result of anxiety and distress. Sometimes, it is a result of reflection, nostalgia, or unresolved issues that were put on the back burner during the busy daytime hours. The brain simply takes advantage of the lack of distractions to process them.
For most people, these episodes of wakefulness are not a signal that something is wrong but a time when the brain is finally given the chance to think.
Practical ways to improve sleep
Keep the bedroom dark, avoid screens before bedtime, and maintain regular sleep schedules. Stay active throughout the day, cut back on afternoon caffeine, and avoid eating very early or heavy dinners. If your thoughts disturb your sleep, write them down. Consult a doctor if early waking is a regular problem.
