Information about sleep, including its symptoms, potential treatments, useful tips you can try now and into the future, and how to seek professional help.
Conditions
Let’s talk about sleep
Overview
Sleep disorders encompass a range of conditions that affect the quality, timing, and amount of sleep, impacting daily functioning and overall health. These can include insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and narcolepsy. Quality sleep is essential for physical and mental health, making it crucial to address and manage sleep-related issues.
Symptoms
Recognising the signs
Sleep disorders can manifest in various ways, and the symptoms often depend on the specific condition.
Insomnia
Difficulty falling or staying asleep, waking up too early, and not feeling refreshed after sleep.
Sleep Apnea
Pauses in breathing during sleep, often accompanied by loud snoring, gasping, or choking.
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)
Uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an irresistible urge to move them, typically in the evening.
Narcolepsy
Excessive daytime sleepiness, sudden loss of muscle tone (cataplexy), sleep paralysis, and hallucinations.
Treatments
What Helps: Proven Strategies
Managing sleep disorders typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, therapies, and sometimes medication. Here’s what can help:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I): A structured program that helps identify and replace thoughts and behaviours that cause or worsen sleep problems.
- Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): A treatment for sleep apnea that uses a machine to help keep the airway open during sleep.
- Sleep Hygiene: Practices that promote consistent uninterrupted sleep, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule and creating a restful environment.
- Relaxation Techniques: Methods like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and progressive muscle relaxation help to reduce stress and promote sleep.
- Medication: Prescription medications can help manage symptoms of specific sleep disorders like insomnia and narcolepsy.
Tips & Tricks
Try for today
Let’s focus on what you can do right now, manageable and simple strategies that can help you navigate your sleep. Here are some suggestions for “Try for today”:
Tips & Tricks
Try for tomorrow
Now, let’s focus on what you can do to grow and get better. Here we share some proactive strategies and resources that can help you not just survive, but thrive, as you journey towards ensuring sleep.
Seek Help
When to seek professional help
If you’re consistently struggling with sleep issues that affect your daily life, it’s important to seek professional help. A healthcare provider can diagnose sleep disorders and recommend appropriate treatments to improve your sleep quality and overall health. Remember, quality sleep is vital for your well-being.
Dr Sarah Herniman
Clinical Psychologist
Sarah is an AHPRA-registered Clinical Psychologist, and is dedicated to helping individuals lead fulfilling lives. Learn more about Dr Sarah
