Insomnia

While there are other forms of sleeping difficulties and disorders, by far the most widespread, well-known, and perhaps distressing is insomnia.

Someone may be diagnosed with chronic insomnia if sleep difficulties occur at least three nights a week, for at least three months, and cause significant interference with that person’s daily life.

What Causes Insomnia?

Sleeping difficulties can occur at any age and with no underlying cause (called primary insomnia). In many cases, however, they develop in young adulthood because of stress, lifestyle, or other health conditions (called secondary insomnia).

Some specific examples of these causes include:

• Stress related to family, friends, work, school, finances, or health issues.
• Work or travel that interrupts regular sleeping patterns, e.g. shift work, jet lag, hotel beds.
• Poor sleep habits, such as irregular sleep times or engaging in stimulating activities before bed.
• Excessive consumption of stimulants, such as caffeine or sugar.
• Mental health issues, such as PTSD or anxiety disorders.
• Medication or other medical conditions, such as hyperthyroidism or asthma.

Symptoms of Insomnia

In simple terms, insomnia is difficulty getting to sleep or staying asleep. These symptoms can be episodic (lasting one to three months), chronic (lasting three months or more) or recurrent (multiple episodes within a year).

Not getting enough quality sleep due to insomnia can lead to:

• Fatigue and decreased energy or motivation.
• Irritability and mood swings.
• Problems focussing or decision making.
• Exacerbation of existing mental conditions, such as depression or anxiety.

Treatment for Insomnia in XXXXXX

Psychological support may be helpful to treat your symptoms of insomnia and other sleeping difficulties. Our preferred therapeutic approach when treating post-traumatic stress disorder – and other psychological conditions such as adjustment disorder – is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy or ACT.

Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)

ACT plays a key role in helping people to better deal with the range of symptoms associated with insomnia and sleeping difficulties. ACT is a mindfulness-based therapy which supports people to change how they experience their thoughts and emotions. ACT also supports people to make changes in their lives which are in line with their personal values.

Treatment Options

At XXXXXX, we have experience in the following therapy types:

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
• Exposure Therapy and Prolonged Exposure
• Motivational Interviewing
  

Face-to-face or online appointments for treatment of insomnia can be booked at our XXXXXX clinic.