Passage

Medium

While melatonin supplements may seem like a quick fix for sleep problems, health experts caution against relying on them as a magic long-term solution. The supplements, available in various forms like gummies, pills and liquid, have become increasingly popular among individuals struggling with sleep issues. However, experts advise that they should only be used under medical supervision and for specific purposes.

According to Dr. Neetu Jain, a sleep specialist, melatonin supplements are not effective for individuals with underlying anxiety or depression. "People with these conditions require psychiatric consultation and therapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), to address their sleep problems."

CBT is a talking therapy that helps individuals cope with challenges in life by addressing their thought processes. It is a first-line treatment for sleep-related problems before resorting to pharmacological treatments.

Melatonin supplements are most beneficial for individuals with irregular work shifts, those crossing time zones, or individuals recovering from periods of poor sleep patterns. However, experts warn that prolonged use of these supplements can lead to side effects like grogginess and nausea.

Moreover, melatonin supplements are not sedatives or sleep-inducing drugs but rather "physiological supplements" that support the brain in restoring the quality, structure, and pattern of sleep. Experts emphasise the importance of good "sleep hygiene", including avoiding stimulating activities or drinks in the evening, reducing screen time, and engaging in relaxing activities before bed.

Individuals struggling with sleep issues should consult a sleep specialist to determine the underlying cause of their problem and develop a personalised treatment plan.

Why do health experts caution against relying on melatonin supplements as a long-term solution?

They are highly addictive and can cause withdrawal symptoms

They are only effective for individuals with severe sleep disorders

They do not address underlying sleep issues and may have side effects

They are not approved by medical authorities for sleep treatment

✅ Correct Option: 3

Option 1 -> The passage mentions side effects like grogginess and nausea, but does not state that melatonin supplements are addictive or cause withdrawal symptoms.

Option 2 -> The passage indicates melatonin is most beneficial for specific situations (irregular shifts, time zone changes), not severe sleep disorders. It's actually ineffective for underlying conditions like anxiety or depression.

Option 3 -> The passage clearly states melatonin doesn't work for underlying anxiety or depression, that these conditions require therapy like CBT, and that prolonged use leads to side effects like grogginess and nausea. Melatonin is described as a "physiological supplement" rather than a treatment for root causes.

Option 4 -> The passage recommends use "under medical supervision," suggesting approval, but doesn't state they are unapproved by medical authorities.

Hence, Option 3 -> The passage emphasizes that melatonin supplements are not a magic solution because they don't address underlying causes like anxiety or depression (which require psychiatric consultation and CBT), and prolonged use can cause side effects. Experts stress the need to identify and treat the root cause of sleep problems rather than relying on supplements alone -> correct

Question 2

According to Dr. Neetu Jain, why are melatonin supplements ineffective for individuals with anxiety or depression?

Question 3

What is the significance of the term 'physiological supplements' in describing melatonin?

Question 4

What is the primary purpose of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in sleep treatment?

Why do health experts caution against relying on melatonin supplements as a long-term solution?

Solution

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