The High cost of Restless: Living with insomnia
Sleepless nights have become a hidden struggle for many individuals as stress, worry, and digital distractions rob them of sleep. Insomnia, formerly treated as a small issue is now a serious health problem impacting both the mind and body.
Insomnia occurs when you do not sleep properly or sufficiently, causing interruptions in your ability to feel or function. For some people, sleeplessness is a small issue, but for others, it may be a major problem.
What are the symptoms
– Feeling cranky, depressed or anxious
– Feeling tired or sleepy during the day
– Having a hard time sleeping at night
– Waking up during the night
– Slowed thought processes, confusion or trouble concentrating.
CausesÂ
Depending on the type of insomnia, there are numerous causes that your primary care physician may assist you with.
- a) Caffeine, nicotine and alcohol.
- b) Changes in activity.
- c) Eating too much late in the night.
- d) Irregular sleep habits.
- e) medical conditions or use of certain drugs.
- f) Sleep disorders.
Insomnia comes in different types: acute insomnia, chronic insomnia and comorbid insomnia.
Acute Insomnia
A short-term spell of having trouble sleeping, typically caused by a life event such as a stressful shift in a person’s employment, receiving terrible news, or travel. It usually resolves without treatment.
Chronic Insomnia
A lengthy history of having problems sleeping. Insomnia is typically considered chronic if a person has difficulty getting asleep or staying asleep at least three evenings per week for three months or more. Due to its nature, chronic insomnia has many causes.
Comorbid Insomnia
Comorbid usually occurs alongside another disorder. Psychiatric problems such as anxiety, depression and worry have been linked to sleep disruptions.
Certain medical illnesses may cause insomnia or make a person uncomfortable at night, such as arthritis or back discomfort, making it difficult to sleep.
How can you treat Insomnia?
Cognitive and behavioural therapies
This strategy focusses on altering the attitudes and practices that disrupt sleep. It includes tactics such as relaxation exercises, sleep scheduling, and screen time limits before bedtime. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia helps patients manage stress and create healthy sleep habits without the need of drugs.
Medical treatment
When insomnia is severe or associated with other health concerns, doctors may give sleep drugs or supplements for temporary relief.
In certain circumstances, treatment may also include treating underlying concerns such as anxiety, depression, or chronic pain with medication or therapy while under medical supervision.
Insomnia may steal our sleep but with awareness and proper care, comfortable sleep may be regained. Prioritising mental health, healthy habits, and balance is the first step towards restoring restful nights and energised days.
