The number one predictive factor of mental health is sleep. That means that there are natural interventions you can learn to improve quality of sleep and minimize sleep disturbances. Often times a mental health episode for example depression or anxiety actually begins with loss of sleep and then snow balls from there creating a cycle of loss of sleep, exacerbated symptoms of mental health and then even more loss of sleep or even insomnia.
Here are a few:. Although there are many types of sleep disturbances, three of the more common sleep maladies include Insomnia , Sleep Apnea , and Night Terrors. Insomnia can be short-term acute or can last a long time chronic and may result from unresolved Mental Health symptoms. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat relax too much to allow normal breathing. Sleep apnea is seen in all age groups, but the frequency increases with age and obesity.
Sleep terrors are episodes of screaming combined with intense fear and flailing while still asleep. Also known as night terrors, sleep terrors are often the result of unresolved traumatic experiences.
The training educated me on the important role that building Sleep Drive, understanding Circadian Rhythms, and improving Sleep Environment play in developing healthy sleep habits otherwise known as sleep hygiene. Using tools such as a Sleep Log and identification of coping skills in a therapeutic environment will address stressors that affect proper sleep habits. The Insomnia program that I provide involves an initial one-hour assessment followed by six to eight minute sessions depending on severity level that can restore proper sleep habits and has the potential to be life changing.
Change Your Thoughts about Sleep. Establish Sleep-Promoting Habits. Develop Relaxation Responses. Enhance Sleep Attitudes. Cope Better with Stress. At times, secondary sleep disturbances such as Sleep Apnea or Night Terrors are also identified. Although the CBT-I program does not address them, they can be resolved through medical or therapeutic interventions instead. Anyone struggling with issues related to sleep, I will recommend a sleep study which can be prescribed by our in-house psychiatrist, as well as psychiatry sleep appointment in our office.
