ALBAWABA - There is nothing worse than getting ready for bed after a long and not getting the rest your body and mind deserve. For some individuals, this occurrence is so frequent that their condition is classified as insomnia.
What is insomnia?
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Insomnia is a sleep disorder that affects many people across the world. It is defined as difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep long enough to feel rested.
This condition can be acute, meaning it lasts for a shorter period, or chronic, meaning it persists for an extended period.
Causes of insomnia
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One of the most common causes is anxiety or stress. Worries over work, relationships, or financial issues can keep individuals awake, leading to sleep deprivation.
Other medical conditions can lead to insomnia, including chronic pain, certain medications, and neurological issues like Parkinson's disease.
Unhealthy sleep habits, such as irregular sleep schedules and poor sleep environments, can also contribute to it.
The treatment process
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The treatment process varies and largely depends on the underlying cause of the disorder.
In instances where the cause is stress or anxiety, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be employed.
CBT involves a psychological approach to treat insomnia where individuals learn effective coping mechanisms and strategies to handle stress during bedtime.
Another approach for possible treatment is through good sleep hygiene. Individuals are advised to establish routines before bedtime and maintain a similar sleep schedule every day.
Avoiding stimulants like caffeine and nicotine, especially around bedtime, can contribute to a better quality of sleep.
A relaxed sleep environment, including a comfortable and clean sleeping surface, should also be established.
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Lastly, prescription drugs are often used to treat insomnia. These can include benzodiazepines or non-benzodiazepine sedatives.
It is recommended that individuals use these drugs under the supervision of a healthcare professional as they can cause addiction and other adverse effects.
Overall, it is important for someone to get a good amount of rest and sleep by identifying the issue and not disregarding it since a good night's rest truly improves an individual's quality of life.
