From time to time, most people find themselves muttering (or screaming) at 4:00 a.m., “why can’t I sleep?!” For some, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep can even become the norm. This is called insomnia — upsetting, disruptive, and a way of life for some. Insomnia can include trouble falling asleep, trouble staying asleep, or not getting restful sleep at least three nights per week. (Trouble falling asleep is defined here as taking more than 30 minutes to fall asleep. Trouble staying asleep is defined as being awake for more than 30 minutes during the night.)
[Read more…]Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I)
We all know that cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia is effective. But exactly who is it for? And what does it involve?
In my experience, patients who seek therapy for depression or anxiety often report problems with sleep. These problems usually fall into one (or more) of three categories: 1) difficulties falling asleep, 2) difficulties staying asleep, or 3) waking up earlier than intended. Any of these can have a real impact on one’s quality of life.
When Is the Right Time to Get Insomnia Treatment?
If insomnia is brought on by recent life stress like trouble at work or in a romantic relationship, it is called acute insomnia. Usually, this kind of short-term insomnia resolves itself and sleep patterns return to normal. However, if insomnia persists past a few weeks (chronic insomnia), it can exacerbate other problems. It can then evolve into a vicious cycle of a) sleeplessness and b) anxious thoughts about sleeplessness. When this is the case, insomnia treatment can be helpful.
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