A sleep disorder is a change in sleeping patterns or habits that can negatively affect health. These can include narcolepsy, insomnia, or sleep apnea.

Good sleep is important. It can help you think more clearly, have sharper decision-making abilities, feel healthier and happier, and more. It’s normal to have an “off-night” sometimes, but if you’re experiencing regular sleep problems or sleep disorders, then it may be time to seek treatment.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, about 70 million Americans suffer from sleep disorders such as insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, narcolepsy, and more. Although sleep issues can seem common, it’s important to get them taken care of. Continue reading the information below to learn more about the advantages of taking care of a sleep disorder, and the disadvantages of not receiving proper treatment:

Advantages of Good Sleep

Good sleep is important for healthy brain function, so it can help improve concentration and productivity.

Good sleep helps maximize athletic performance, including improved speed, agility, reaction times, and mental well-being.

Sleep bolsters your immune system. People who sleep for less than 7 hours are almost 3 times as likely to develop a cold.

Getting enough sleep helps improve your social life. It gives you a greater ability to interact socially and detect social cues.

Disadvantages of Poor Sleep

Poor sleep is linked to weight gain. This is due to several factors such as hormone imbalance, motivation to exercise, and more.

Sleep deprivation causes poor appetite regulation,  leading to higher levels of the hormone “ghrelin” which stimulates a bigger appetite.

Poor sleep poses a greater risk of heart disease or stroke.

People who sleep for less than 6 hours per night face a higher risk of type 2 diabetes.

Poor sleep is linked to higher rates of mental health issues such as depression.

All in all, it’s worth it to take care of any issues affecting your sleep! 

Symptoms of a Sleep Disorders

Some of the common signs that you might have sleep disorders include:

• • Inability to fall asleep or remain asleep
• • Pauses in breathing during sleep
• • Daytime fatigue
• • Sleepwalking or sleep talking
• • Strong urge to take naps during the day
• • Irritability, anxiety, or depression
• • Lack of concentration
• • Unusual or unpleasant urges to move while falling asleep
• • “Sleep attacks” – suddenly feel extremely tired and fall asleep without warning

These are just some of the signs of a sleep disorder. If you or a loved one are experiencing these symptoms, it may be a good idea to work with a therapist to find solutions.

What can I do?

Most sleep disorders can be treated through psychotherapy (talk therapy), medication management, or a combination of these two treatments. At A Better Outlook Psychiatry & Addiction, we specialize in treatments focused on medications, but also provide counseling therapy when appropriate. We may refer one of our community partners to you if you require or desire more intensive talk therapy. We can also review the evidence surrounding alternative and complementary treatment options such as herbal supplements.

Your first step is to contact our office for a new patient evaluation. Our providers will not attempt to sell you on or force you to any specific treatment. Think of your first appointment as an education about your diagnosis as well as the most up-to-date and evidence-based treatment options.