Amy E. Danser, Ph.D., M.B.A.
is a Licensed Psychologist specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, gay and lesbian issues, insomnia, coping with medical illnesses, bereavement (including the loss of companion animals),relationship concerns, and life balance. (954) 583-8831 Ext. 390
The Path to Healthy Sleep
It is well-known that sleep is important for your mental and physical health, but how do you know when your sleep is a problem? An occasional night of poor sleep is common. However, persistent difficulty falling and/or remaining asleep and feeling tired the next day may suggest insomnia, a common sleep disorder. Experts suggest that you seek help when: 1) you experience poor sleep for more than 3 weeks, 2) it does not improve, and 3) it interferes with your daytime functioning.
A therapist with experience in evaluating and treating sleep problems can help. Sleep difficulty may stem from another sleep disorder, various psychological or medical conditions, medication treatments, or a combination of factors. Examples include anxiety, depression, diabetes, heart disease, pain, respiratory problems, and sleep apnea. Whatever the cause, a therapist can work with you and collaborate with various specialists to assess possible underlying causes, identify maintaining factors, and determine appropriate treatment.
The symptoms of insomnia may be maintained by poor sleep habits and/or negative beliefs and attitudes about sleep. To promote a healthy sleep pattern, cognitive-behavioral therapy is a highly effective treatment to help develop good sleep hygiene behaviors and overcome beliefs and attitudes that hinder sleep. Depending on your specific sleep difficulties, treatment might also include medication.
March 2009 includes National Sleep Awareness Week. Begin your path to healthy sleep and seek help for your sleep difficulties today!