Sleep Health • Women's Health

A Brief Introduction to Insomnia

June 30, 2016
3 Min Read

It’s an increasingly common occurrence for people to have sleep problems in today’s modern society. Young people are often hindered by it and cases amongst women tend to be higher than in men (although in terms of teenagers, this is the reverse). Whether it’s the effect of increased mobile phone, tablet, laptop and T.V use – something seems to have changed within our bodies and therefore makes getting to sleep much more difficult than it once was. Many people’s liv

What is insomnia?

Insomnia is the difficulty people may have in falling asleep or being able to sleep for a healthy period of time (so that they feel well rested and fresh in the morning). In the US, it is estimated that approximately 1/4 of people experience some form or period of insomnia throughout their lives.

What are the common symptoms of insomnia?

The list below outlines a number of signs that are commonly shown by those experiencing insomnia or sleeping difficulties:

-Behaviors involving aggression or irritability

·Difficulties falling sleep

-Disrupted sleep patterns – Waking up too early or too late

·Waking up in the middle of the night

What are the causes of insomnia?

The causes of insomnia can vary greatly depending on the age, gender, lifestyle, daily routine and health of the individual who experiences it. However, anxiety and high levels of stress are commonly linked to insomnia and sleeping difficulties. Insomnia is also commonly experienced by those suffering health complications such as schizophrenia, depression and even asthma. Medications and substance abuse (drugs and/or alcohol) can also be strongly linked to sleeping problems and insomnia.

How can insomnia be treated?

There are numerous, simple lifestyle changes that you can make which have been proven to aid those suffering from insomnia; they are outlined below:

1.Make use of an eye mask or have thick, blackout blinds or curtains in the room that you sleep in. This can limit the effect that light has on disturbing your sleep. If you are sensitive to noise, try out the use of earplugs

2.Avoid the consumption of foods or drinks that are high in caffeine, especially later on in the day or at night

3.Set an alarm or have a regular morning routine that stimulates you to wake up at a similar time each day (this can help you to reset your body clock and natural rhythm of sleeping)

4.Avoid the consumption of heavy or large meals late in the day or at night

5.Use relaxation techniques such as taking a warm bath, doing meditation or reading and listening to gentle music before going to bed

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