Getting enough sleep is an essential part of maintaining physical and mental well-being. Everyone tosses and turns sometimes, but when poor sleep becomes a pattern, it can have a dramatic impact on your ability to function properly during waking hours. Sleep problems have a wide variety of causes, from transient stressors to mental health struggles, and no matter why you’re struggling with your sleep, treatment for sleep problems from Columbia Associates can help.
Disturbed sleeping patterns are associated with certain mental health concerns. For example, people with anxiety might lay awake worrying, and people experiencing post-traumatic stress may suffer from night terrors. Sleep disturbances are common in individuals without other mental health concerns as well. Life stressors or periods of change may lead to brief or prolonged sleep disturbances. You are not alone if you or someone you care about is stuck in an unhealthy sleep pattern.
Our mental health professionals can help to assess your sleep disturbance and support the development of healthy sleep patterns. During your treatment for sleep issues, our caring team will address any underlying concerns that are causing interference with restorative sleep. Contact us at 703.682.8208 today to learn more about how receiving mental health support can help you get a better night’s sleep.
The Relation Between Sleep and Mental Health
Good sleep and good mental health are closely related, with poor quality of sleep contributing to the symptoms of many mental illnesses, including depression and anxiety. People who suffer from insomnia or other sleep disturbances often find it difficult to concentrate on tasks or engage in social activities. Sleep problems can also cause feelings of low energy and fatigue, which can worsen mood. Conversely, mental health concerns can also disrupt sleeping patterns, causing difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
Signs of Sleep Disturbance
Sleep disturbances can have varied impacts and intensities. Hypersomnia and insomnia, for example, describe sleep disorders that are complete opposites. That being said, there are some general signs and symptoms that could indicate a need to address sleep issues.
Symptoms of a sleep disturbance can include:
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Inability to stay asleep
- Waking up too early
- Daytime drowsiness
- Falling asleep during other activities
- Experiencing sleep paralysis
- Frequent nightmares
Treatment for Sleep Problems and Mental Health Concerns
In general, treatment options for sleep problems can include:
Medication
Medication can be used to help a person fall asleep, feel more alert, or address underlying mental health conditions contributing to poor sleep quality.
Therapy
When sleep issues are comorbid with or a symptom of another mental health condition, therapy or counseling may be included in treatment to address lifestyle changes that can improve sleep quality.
Poor sleep can have a significant impact on your health and safety. Our mental health specialists can help you understand and overcome your sleep disturbance.
Discover How Columbia Associates Can Support Improved Sleeping Patterns Today
At Columbia Associates, we are dedicated to helping people in our communities access life-changing mental health care. If you believe that you are experiencing disrupted sleep that is related to a mental health concern, contact our mental health specialists today at 703.682.8208. We are dedicated to helping you get the restful sleep you deserve.