Treatment for Insomnia
A healthy amount of sleep for the average adult is about 8 hours. Getting sufficient sleep is essential because necessary biological processes happen during sleep. Adequate rest also helps keep you awake and alert the next day. Many people occasionally struggle to get enough sleep. But if you’re unable to sleep well or long consistently enough, you may need treatment for insomnia. Insomnia therapy can help restore sleep and remedy difficulty functioning that results from insufficient sleep.
What is insomnia?
Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder. Those affected struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep often enough that it interferes with daily functioning. Many adults report occasional symptoms of insomnia or difficulty getting through the day because of a lack of sleep. However, about 6-10 percent of adults have symptoms that qualify as a disorder.
Insomnia generally results from one or more conditions or lifestyle factors that disrupt your ability to sleep. These include:
- Health concerns
- Chronic pain
- Breathing conditions (especially sleep apnea)
- Acid reflux
- Thyroid dysfunction
- Restless leg syndrome
- Urinary problems
- Other Disorders
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Dementia
- Brain chemical imbalances
- Specific life changes or events
- Medications or other substances
- Stimulants including caffeine and nicotine
- Alcohol and other sedatives wearing off
- Decongestants and other cold medicines
- Steroids
How does medication help in the treatment for insomnia?
Although insomnia is often related to other conditions, to be effective, treatment for insomnia should specifically target sleep disturbances. There are lifestyle changes and home remedies that may aid sleep. But when it comes to an insomnia disorder, it’s best to work with an insomnia therapy professional to ensure you use only safe methods and address the right issues.
As a licensed professional, I can help you by prescribing a safe, effective medication that supports sleep. Some medicines may be habit-forming or decrease in effectiveness if taken too long. At Griffin Psychiatry, I’ll monitor and address these issues through your insomnia therapy.
A good night’s sleep is essential for a healthy, balanced life. So seeking out treatment for insomnia in Washington DC is the first step to taking back control of your sleep.