Sleep disorders
Lasting trouble falling asleep, staying asleep or with the quality of sleep, affecting how you function during the day.
Sleep disorders are a group of problems in which sleep is too short, broken or unrefreshing, which affects wellbeing and functioning during the day. The most common is insomnia — difficulty falling asleep, waking during the night or waking too early in the morning. Sleep disorders also include, among others, circadian rhythm disorders, restless legs syndrome and excessive daytime sleepiness.
Sleep problems are very common — most people experience them from time to time, and in some they become chronic. They often occur alongside depression, anxiety disorders and chronic stress, reinforcing one another; they can also result from physical illnesses, medicines or stimulants.
Treatment begins with understanding the causes and assessing sleep hygiene and lifestyle. The main and most effective method for chronic insomnia is cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I). Where needed, especially in the short term, medication is also used, and when the problem stems from another disorder we treat that underlying cause first.
A regular daily rhythm (consistent bedtimes and waking times), cutting down on caffeine and alcohol, physical activity during the day, and winding down and avoiding screens before bed all help improve sleep. If the difficulties persist despite these changes, or drain your energy during the day, it is worth consulting a specialist.