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Insomnia
People with chronic insomnia are at greater risk for developing
anxiety and depression. There is some evidence that treatment
of insomnia that occurs early enough may help prevent the development
of anxiety and depression. When evaluating an insomnia problem,
sleep specialists must always consider whether anxiety, depression,
posttraumatic stress disorder or any other psychological or psychiatric
disorder may be playing a role and recommend appropriate treatment.
Even when the problem is limited to insomnia and there is no
anxiety disorder present, people may become very worried about
their sleep and the worry keeps them awake much longer than when
they are able to relax.
Abnormal Sleep Behaviors
Usually abnormal sleep behaviors (parasomnias) do not indicate
any greater likelihood of a psychological or psychiatric disorder.
Most sleep disorders that cause abnormal sleep behaviors are
neurologically-based and require good medical treatment, although
psychological stress may increase some symptoms of these disorders.
Parasomnias may sometimes have a blend of physical and psychological
components and psychological treatment may, in those cases, become
a very helpful part of good treatment.
Snoring and Sleep Apnea
These are obviously not psychological disorders. However, they
may certainly have important psychological effects. A short
list here includes increasing risk for depression, adverse effects
on families and other personal relationships, compromised daytime
performance resulting in reduced self-esteem, and measurable
cognitive impairments such as memory and concentration problems
due to poor sleep quality. Also there may be psychological factors
at work in adapting to the treatments for snoring and sleep apnea.
Children's Sleep
Psychological factors may be involved in children’s sleep problems
as readily as in adults. When this is the case, often a team
approach in understanding the child’s problem and utilizing effective
treatment options may be essential in achieving success. An
effective “team” for the child will often include parents, teachers,
caregivers, the pediatrician and a sleep specialist.
Other Sleep Disorders
A variety of other sleep disorders may at times raise psychological
issues, primarily in terms of coping with the effects of the
sleep disorder. Since most sleep disorders can be successfully
treated, it is vital that patients with sleep disorders become
knowledgeable about their disorder and the varieties of options
available to treat it and minimize its impact. |
