Sleep Disorders
Sleep disorders are conditions that disrupt a person’s ability to get restful, restorative sleep. They can affect how long it takes to fall asleep, how often one wakes up during the night, or how rested a person feels during the day. Over time, poor sleep can take a serious toll on mental, emotional, and physical health—impacting everything from mood and memory to immune function and quality of life.
There are many types of sleep disorders, including insomnia, sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, and circadian rhythm disorders. Causes vary and may include stress, underlying medical or psychiatric conditions, substance use, or irregular sleep schedules. Sleep problems often coexist with conditions like anxiety, depression, or trauma, creating a cycle that can be difficult to break without support.
With a combination of behavioral strategies, lifestyle changes, and sometimes medical or therapeutic interventions, many people can restore healthy sleep patterns and feel more energized, focused, and emotionally balanced.
COMMON SYMPTOMS:
Symptoms vary from person to person but may include:
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Waking up frequently during the night or too early in the morning
- Excessive daytime sleepiness or fatigue
- Loud snoring or gasping during sleep
- Restlessness or uncomfortable sensations in the legs
- Trouble concentrating or remembering things
- Mood changes such as irritability or depression
- Headaches upon waking
- Irregular sleep-wake patterns
- Feeling unrefreshed after a full night’s sleep
If sleep issues are becoming a regular part of your life and starting to affect your daily functioning, it may be helpful to explore what's contributing to the problem. Support is available, and many people find that making small changes or seeking guidance can lead to more restful sleep and a better sense of balance.