What to Look For in a Bed

A bed is more than just a mattress. It also includes a frame, springs and other components. Some beds include a mattress and box spring together in one unit, while others require you to purchase them separately. The type of mattress you choose can affect how comfortable your sleep is, especially if you have any specific needs such as back pain or heat intolerance.

Aside from comfort, support plays a big role in how your mattress feels. A mattress with strong spinal support can help keep your spine in alignment while reducing pressure on the hips, shoulders and back. This is especially important for those with chronic back issues or who have a weak back.

For those who want a firmer feel, orthopedic surgeons recommend medium-firm mattresses. If you’re shopping for a mattress online or in physical stores, read the return policy carefully. Direct-to-consumer online brands typically give you anywhere from 30 days to a year to try out your mattress before returning it for a full refund, though some may levy a shipping or restocking fee. Physical stores usually have a much shorter return window, often only a few weeks, and may only offer store credit.

Foam mattresses are popular for their luxurious feel, but not all foams are created equal. Look for gel memory foam that uses phase-changing materials to balance your body temperature. This feature helps reduce the sagging of the edge of your mattress and offers motion isolation so you won’t disturb your partner with movement during the night.

Other mattress features to consider include edge support, breathability, cooling and allergen-repelling layers. Some of these are standard in mattresses, while others are available only in luxury models. If you suffer from joint pain, sleep hot or have allergies that flare at night, these features can provide relief.

Binge eating disorder (BED) is an eating disorder that causes frequent episodes of overeating and a feeling of losing control over what you eat. It is a serious mental health condition, but it can be treated with therapy and medication.

There are a variety of treatments for BED, including cognitive behavioral therapy and family-based therapy. Yale Medicine Psychiatry is home to a program called POWER that uses evidence-based psychological and behavioral treatment to help people with BED.

The first step in treating BED is to make an appointment with a physician or mental health professional. You may also be able to participate in a clinical trial of a new treatment for BED. These studies are investigating a variety of medications, combinations of drugs and therapies to determine the most effective treatment for this challenging condition.