Sleep Problems
We all need to have a good night's sleep in order to be able to deal with what the day holds for us. However, some people suffer from lack of sleep or insomnia. This can be a distressing problem and can interfere with our daily life.
What is good sleep?
Sleep is a necessary part of a healthy life style. Although we are unaware of it our sleep pattern varies at different times during the night. One of the most important phases of our sleep pattern is what is known as Rapid Eye Movement Sleep or REM sleep. In this type of sleep we dream and our brain is very active. However, during non REM sleep the body undergoes its repairs from the previous day's activities.
The amount of sleep we need depends on a number of factors. Most adults need to sleep between 7 and 8 hours each night and this reduces with age.
Sleep Problems
When someone has difficulty in sleeping it can affect them quite badly. They can find that they are falling asleep during the day, that they can't make decisions as they used to and mood may even be affected. This can be dangerous if the person is driving or operating machinery.
Insomnia, Too Little Sleep
Most problems with insomnia can be easily sorted out without needing to consult the doctor. It can be caused by being uncomfortable in bed, lack of exercise during the day, eating too much late at night, smoking and drinking too much tea, coffee or alcohol. All these problems can be overcome by changes in our habits. If insomnia persists then it can have quite an effect on a person's life.
What can help Insomnia?
Drugs
Sleeping tablets may help but they do not deal with the cause of the problem and are not a long term answer.
Self Help
- Pattern
Get a regular sleep pattern, going to bed and getting up at the same time each day. - Comfort
It is important that you are comfortable. Get a good bed and ensure that you are not too hot or cold. - Exercise
Make sure you get enough exercise during the day. - Drinks
Reduce the amount of tea and coffee you drink and avoid alcohol as it can interfere with sleep patterns. - Relax
Try to relax before going to bed. - Eating
Try not to eat large amounts late at night.
Sleeping Too Much
Some people find that they fall asleep during the day when they should be doing other things. This can have a number of causes; not sleeping properly at night is the usual reason, however it can also be a symptom of depression and a means of escaping from the pressures of life. There may also be a physical reason for sleeping too much and you may need to consult your doctor.
Sleeping At The Wrong Time
This can happen to people who have to work when others are asleep, such as shift workers, or if you stay up late to study. It can then become difficult to readjust. In order to adjust it is important to try to wake up at the same time each day, regardless of the time you went to bed. Then to stay awake all day and go to bed at a regular time at night. This may be difficult at first but it will help you to readjust.
Nightmares
We all dream, it is a natural part of our sleep pattern, but sometimes dreams can become frightening. Occasional nightmares are nothing to worry about - we all have them from time to time. However, sometimes they can become more persistent. This can happen following a traumatic event or when we are emotionally distressed. When this happens it may help to talk to someone about them or about what is troubling you. You may want to talk to a counsellor.
