Merck and the National Sleep Foundation Urge Insomnia Sufferers to Prioritize Sleep and Move Beyond Tired

Real Life Stories of Sleep Struggles Chronicled in New Educational Program to Inspire and Support Others

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Oct 26, 2015, 08:00 ET

Beyond Tired participants discuss what it's like at night when they can't sleep.

Beyond Tired participants discuss why getting better sleep is important to them.

"There's a lot of help and hope for people with insomnia." -- Julie

Jessica has trouble with interrupted sleep

KENILWORTH, N.J., Oct. 26, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Merck (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, and the National Sleep Foundation today announced the launch of a new educational program that highlights personal stories about sleep for four individuals from across the country. Beyond Tired highlights these individuals' struggles and triumphs, on www.BeyondTired.org, as they strive to refocus on their sleep and how it fits into their busy schedules. By sharing their experiences, both the good and the bad, the program aims to motivate other insomnia sufferers to renew efforts to improve their sleep.

Experience the interactive Multimedia News Release here: http://www.multivu.com/players/English/7610151-merck-nsf-beyond-tired-insomnia-campaign/

"Insomnia can be an isolating and frustrating condition, and a vicious cycle, because sufferers often struggle with the effects of inadequate sleep into the next day," said David Cloud, CEO of the National Sleep Foundation. "We hope that, by following these people's journeys, others struggling with sleep will connect with their experiences and seek help or try new things in their own lives."

Beyond Tired documented each insomnia sufferer's daily schedule, including sleep routines and habits, and how each person's busy life was affected by his or her insomnia. Participants consulted with a sleep expert from the National Sleep Foundation for personalized advice; implemented new sleep tips; and documented their trials, reflections and outcomes along the way. Some ideas helped them; and, as expected, some approaches didn't work. Some days and nights were better than others. But all four have a renewed sense of the importance of making their sleep a priority. Their personal stories have been brought to life through short videos, blog posts and photos on www.BeyondTired.org.

Zac is a husband, father of two, and co-owner of a children's theater company with his wife Tania. Zac feels his lifestyle contributes to his inability to fall asleep.
Jessica is a mother of two 2-year olds and realtor who struggles to stay asleep at night. She often wakes up in the middle of the night and has difficulty getting back to sleep.
Julie has struggled with insomnia for more than 20 years and her lifestyle, working as both a teacher and small business owner, has made it challenging for her to focus on sleep.
Jana is a mother of four (including twin girls) and a savvy social media user who runs her own blog and graphic design business. Jana struggles to both fall asleep and stay asleep.

"Merck is excited to collaborate with the National Sleep Foundation on Beyond Tired, as part of our ongoing commitment to sharing resources and tools to help patients manage their insomnia," said Eric Luthi, executive director and global brand leader, Insomnia marketing, Merck Global Human Health. "Each Beyond Tired story reinforces the need for open and constructive discussions about creating an individualized approach that must be prioritized and tailored over time."

To learn more about Zac, Jessica, Julie and Jana, and to follow weekly installments of their journeys, visit www.BeyondTired.org. You can also follow along by visiting the National Sleep Foundation's Facebook page (www.Facebook.com/NationalSleepFoundation) and Twitter handle (www.Twitter.com/SleepFoundation).

About Insomnia
In the United States, approximately 70 million people are affected by one or more symptoms of insomnia. Of these, an estimated 23.5 million people, roughly 10 percent of the adult population, experience symptoms consistent with the diagnosis of insomnia. Insomnia can affect people physically and psychologically, and can cause problems during the day, such as fatigue. It is important for people who are struggling with insomnia to speak with their doctor about it to see what can be done.

About The National Sleep Foundation
The National Sleep Foundation is dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. It is well-known for its annual Sleep in America^® poll. The Foundation is a charitable, educational and scientific not-for-profit organization located in Washington, DC. Its membership includes researchers and clinicians focused on sleep medicine, health professionals, patients, families affected by drowsy driving and more than 900 healthcare facilities.

About Merck
Today's Merck is a global healthcare leader working to help the world be well. Merck is known as MSD outside the United States and Canada. Through our prescription medicines, vaccines, biologic therapies and animal health products, we work with customers and operate in more than 140 countries to deliver innovative health solutions. We also demonstrate our commitment to increasing access to healthcare through far-reaching policies, programs and partnerships. For more information, visit www.merck.com and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.

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