One easy way to stay healthier, live longer and look great is to get the right amount of sleep every night, but sadly as many as 30% of Australians have a diagnosable sleep disorder affecting their wellbeing.

Extended bouts of sleep disruption can have profound physical and psychological effects, including daytime sleepiness, irritability, poor concentration and memory. Left untreated sleep disorders can cause health problems including mental health concerns.

10% of the population has a diagnosed sleep disorder, and an estimated 30% have an untreated or inadequately treated sleep disorder. Of that 30%, many use prescription drugs or alcohol to sleep, which amplifies the problems associated with sleep deprivation.

Disrupted sleep may be caused by stress management, anxiety and other psychological stressors. If you suffer from a sleep disorder, a thorough and competent assessment of all contributing factors should be conducted by a qualified sleep psychologist.

Sleep disorders should not be treated with prescription drugs in the first instance as they may be part of a group of psychological symptoms connected to an underlying issue. If you believe you have a sleep disorder, ask your GP for a referral to a registered Psychologist, who can assess and address the disorder’s psychological components and help you return to a regular night’s sleep.

Our registered Psychologists, Graeme and Deborah, have completed the APS Practice Certificate in Sleep Psychology and are at the time of qualifying, two of only thirteen Australian Psychologists with this accreditation. The certificate permits practice in Sleep Psychology: those without such training are considered to be practising outside their competency.

Typical sleeping disorders include:

• Insomnia – the most common and most debilitating if untreated for a long period
• Sleep phase disorders – a particular problem for shift workers and people regularly exposed to jet lag or time zone effects
• Obstructive Sleep Apnoea – (OSA & the use of CPAP) Individuals often suffer interrupted sleep and do not feel rested after sleeping. Their partners also experience sleep disruption as a result of this condition

Some common psychological issues that disrupt sleep:

• Stress management, including acute stress & adjustment, and PTSD (trauma)
• Anxiety and/or depressive symptoms
• Relationship disruption

Some of the symptoms related to insomnia/ sleep disorders include:

• Difficulty falling asleep or remaining asleep at appropriate times
• Daytime sleepiness
• Disrupting the sleep of partners and other members of the household
• Excessive focus on a lack of restorative sleep
• Somatic (effects on body) complaints
• Snoring and sleep apnoea
• Mood swings, irritability and an inability to cope with sudden changes.

Are you tired of lying awake half the night with your mind racing and dragging your exhausted body through the day? We are here to help. Our assessments, behavioural strategies and counselling services are designed to support your return to healthy sleep. If you would like to know more about Sleep Psychology or want to have a confidential chat, please contact our Gold Coast office today.