Understanding Insomnia & Sleep Difficulties
Not being able to sleep is one of the most commonly reported health complaints among people of all ages. Often referred to as insomnia, difficulty sleeping can significantly interfere with a person’s life, causing issues at work and taking a toll on mood. Lack of sleep causes irritability, tension, or even anger among those who are sleep deprived, but must continue on with work, school, and other daily activities the following day.
Having adequate sleep is certainly a critical aspect of a person’s health, affecting not only whether someone is in a bad mood the next day or not, but sleep is also critical for long-term physical and emotional health. The brain and body engage in a process of restoration during the hours spent sleeping. This process is so important that human beings would not be able to survive without it.
It is extremely stressful, frustrating, and physically draining to lie in bed, feel exhausted from a long day, but to be unable to fall asleep or remain asleep for at least 6 to 8 hours. It is precisely the stress and frustration, however, that can make insomnia worse, as the concern with being unable to sleep is often a major contributor to not being able to sleep.
Understanding Insomnia as a Mental Health Disorder
Insomnia is considered a mental health disorder and a person meets criteria for the disorder if they experience issues with sleep at least three nights per week and if the sleep deficit interferes with daily functioning.
Although insomnia is a disorder issue, it can also be a symptom of something else. This means that if you feel exhausted, but can’t sleep, and if you are practicing habits conducive to sleep, then it is important to explore if insomnia is your body’s way of signaling that there is an issue elsewhere.
Finding the Underlying Causes of Insomnia
Sleep deficits can indicate a myriad of underlying issues ranging from depression, anxiety, relationship issues, or trauma, to numerous physical problems like cardiovascular issues, diabetes, cancer, respiratory problems…the list goes on and on. Even having allergies or sinus issues can cause sleep difficulties. It is also important to assess how we are living our lives in the hours before it’s time for bed.
The factor(s) contributing to insomnia vary greatly, which is why it’s important to see your GP so that any medical problems contributing to insomnia can be ruled out.
Managing Insomnia Through Stress Reduction and Self-Care
If you are otherwise healthy, but still struggling with insomnia, it is important to look into daily life stressors and self-care (or lack of) as possible culprits. We must all cope with stress, practically on a daily basis, but the way that stress can turn chronic or affect us at a deeper level, is largely dependent upon how we manage stress and how we take care of ourselves to combat it.
Stress management and self-care, such as relaxation, meditation, exercise, engaging in hobbies/activities, and spending time with supportive loved ones and friends, are critical in combatting the effects of the fast-paced and high-pressure life that many people lead and that contribute to issues like insomnia.
Seeking Help for Insomnia
Are you having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep? Therapy can help. Ring, text, or email me for further information or to make an appointment on 0411 098 583.
