Want to sleep but can't sleep - Is this a mental illness symptom ?

Phyathai Phaholyothin

2 Min

Fr 16/08/2024

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Want to sleep but can't sleep - Is this a mental illness symptom ?

Having difficulty sleeping, also known as insomnia, is a common problem affecting modern society. It can arise from chronic conditions such as allergies, asthma, high blood pressure, and various mental health issues like stress and anxiety, which undoubtedly impact daily life. You might feel fatigued throughout the day, affecting your work performance. It’s estimated that one-third of the population faces sleep-related issues, more prevalent among women at a ratio of approximately 2:1 compared to men and increasingly common with age.

 

Understanding Insomnia: Insomnia refers to disrupted sleep patterns, categorized into three main types:

  1. Difficulty falling asleep: Takes more than an hour to fall asleep.
  2. Inability to stay asleep: Waking up during the night and struggling to return to sleep.
  3. Waking up too early: Waking up early and not being able to go back to sleep.

Those suffering from insomnia may experience one or multiple of these symptoms, significantly affecting their daily functioning. It leads to daytime tiredness, weakness, headaches, lack of concentration, irritability, and even anxiety.

Causes of Insomnia:

  1. Environmental factors: Such as excessive light or noise, uncomfortable sleeping conditions, or irregular sleep schedules.
  2. Physical health issues: Such as illnesses, pain, respiratory problems, or gastrointestinal issues that disrupt sleep.
  3. Psychological factors: Including stress, anxiety, depression, or excessive worry, which can cause restless nights.

Additionally, lifestyle choices such as alcohol, caffeine, smoking, or certain medications can contribute to insomnia. Shift work or irregular sleep patterns due to work demands can also disrupt sleep.

Treating Insomnia: Treatment varies depending on the underlying cause:

  • Behavioral therapy: Adjusting sleep habits and addressing environmental factors.
  • Medications: Prescribed for severe cases or those with underlying mental health conditions like depression or anxiety.
  • Addressing underlying health issues: Treating physical ailments that disrupt sleep.

When to Consult a Psychiatrist: If you experience persistent difficulty falling or staying asleep for more than three nights a week over a month, it’s crucial to consult a psychiatrist. They will evaluate your medical history, sleep habits, and any contributing psychological factors to diagnose and recommend appropriate treatment.

Preventing Insomnia:

  • Maintain regular sleep schedules.
  • Avoid stimulating drinks or activities before bedtime.
  • Ensure a comfortable sleep environment.
  • Manage stress through relaxation techniques or therapy.

In conclusion, insomnia isn’t just a brief sleep disturbance but can significantly impact overall health and quality of life. Seeking timely medical advice helps in identifying the root cause and finding effective solutions for better sleep and well-being.


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