Insomnia

What is insomnia?

Insomnia is a sleep disorder affecting your ability to get enough sleep and/or sleep soundly. About 10% of people globally have diagnosable insomnia that may negatively affect their quality of life. Insomnia symptoms range in severity from minor inconveniences to major disruptions that can affect physical health in addition to your mental well-being. Treatment offers relief.

Which symptoms can insomnia cause?

Insomnia can cause the following symptoms and more:

• Trouble falling asleep
• Difficulty staying asleep
• Waking up too early
• Daytime fatigue
• Waking up tired
• Waking up in the middle of the night
• Slowed reaction times
• Frequent accidents
• Trouble remembering things
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability
• Depression
• Anxiety

Your symptoms might be short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic). Insomnia could develop on its own or because of a medical condition or lifestyle habits.

What are the risk factors for insomnia?

Insomnia risk factors include:

• Family history of insomnia
• Brain activity changes
• Injuries
• Infections
• Acid reflux
• Neurological conditions
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Stress
• Life changes
• Sleep habits (taking naps, altered sleep schedules, etc.)
• Shift work
• Drinking caffeine
• Alcohol use
• Sleep apnea or other sleep disorders

The exact cause of insomnia isn’t always clear. Long-lasting insomnia can lead to sleep deprivation, fatigue, poor work or school performance, car accidents, or other accidents. It may increase your risk of high blood pressure, heart problems, stroke, diabetes, and obesity.

How is insomnia diagnosed?

Your Claripath Psychiatry specialist diagnoses insomnia by discussing your symptoms, lifestyle, medical history, and goals. They also complete a psychiatric evaluation to screen for mental health disorders like anxiety and depression. Your provider will often recommend that you undergo a sleep study to confirm a diagnosis and determine the severity of your insomnia.

How is insomnia treated?

Your individualized insomnia treatment plan may consist of:

• Medically supervised weight management
• Medication management
• Diet and/or exercise changes
• No caffeine or alcohol late in the day
• No afternoon or evening naps
• Dietary supplements
• Stress management
• Treatment for sleep apnea
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or other forms of psychotherapy

Claripath Psychiatry follows up to ensure an effective outcome, sound sleeping, and an enhanced quality of life. Your provider tailors a treatment plan based on your lifestyle, preferences, goals, and medical history.

Schedule a telemedicine insomnia evaluation at Claripath Psychiatry by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.