DIRECTIONS: Read the dialogues below in English, then translate them and read them in your primary language (if needed). You’re encouraged to read these dialogues with your teacher, tutor, colleagues, family, and friends to practice and improve your American English even further.
Topic: Dealing with Insomnia
Dialogue 1
Emily: Hi there, Susan. You look exhausted today.
Susan: Yeah, I didn’t get much sleep last night.
Emily: Oh no, are you having trouble sleeping again?
Susan: Yeah, it’s been going on for a while now.
Emily: Have you tried any tricks to help you nod off?
Susan: Yeah, I’ve tried everything from relaxing music to warm milk, but nothing seems to work.
Emily: That sounds frustrating! It would be good to talk to your doctor and see if they can recommend anything.
Susan: Yes, that’s a good idea. I think lack of sleep is starting to affect my job performance too. I keep making mistakes and feeling rundown all the time.
Emily: It’s not something to ignore. We need rest to function correctly. And sometimes, just talking about it helps. Do you want to grab coffee later and chat more about how you’re dealing with insomnia? Maybe we can come up with more ideas together.
Susan: Thanks, Emily. That sounds great.
Dialogue 2
Alice: Hi, Sarah. How’s it going?
Sarah: Oh, Alice…I can’t sleep lately. I just lay there for hours and hours without getting any rest.
Alice: That sounds terrible. Have you tried anything to deal with your insomnia?
Sarah: I’ve tried everything! Drinking chamomile tea before bed, listening to soothing music, counting sheep…
Alice: Maybe you should try relaxation techniques, like meditation or deep breathing exercises. Or maybe you need to change your bedtime routine. Do something calming like reading a book instead of watching TV.
Sarah: I’ll give it a go. Thanks for the advice, Alice. I need to get some sleep. I’m barely functioning during the day because of my lack of sleep.
Alice: I know how you feel. Lack of sleep can affect our performance at work and everyday life. Don’t worry; we’ll figure this out together. You deserve to get the rest you need.
Sarah: You’re so kind, Alice. I appreciate your support.
Alice: Of course. We all need someone to lean on sometimes. Let me know if there’s anything else I can do to help.
Sarah: Thanks, Alice. Just knowing that you care means a lot.