Over 40 million Americans suffer from long-term sleep disorders, and more than 20 million report having occasional sleeping problems like sleep anxiety, this is according to the National Institutes of Health. Anxiety and stress are known to cause sleeping problems or make Sleep Anxiety worse. Sleep Anxiety is characterized by abnormal patterns of sleep that interferes with emotional, mental and physical functioning.
Insomnia is the term that is used clinically to describe the condition for people who have difficulty falling asleep, wake up unrefreshed, wake up extremely early, and have trouble staying asleep. Other types of sleep anxiety include grinding your teeth while sleeping, restless leg syndrome, narcolepsy, sleepwalking, and sleep apnea.
It is known that anxiety can cause sleeping problems, and research indicates that sleep deprivation may cause anxiety disorders. Studies have also found that psychiatric disorders typically cause or sleep disruption. It has been found that people that suffer with chronic insomnia are at a higher risk of getting an anxiety disorder.
Sleep Anxiety Health Risks
Sleep Anxiety can extend beyond being tired. It may also lead to health problems, higher risks of injury, and low performance at school or work. Also, people that suffer with sleep anxiety are at risk of developing diabetes, stroke, high blood pressure, heart attack, irregular heartbeat, heart failure, heart disease, and obesity.
Sleep Anxiety Treatment
If you believe that you are suffering with Sleep Anxiety, then you should consult your doctor or a mental health professional. There are treatment options for people that suffer with this condition such as therapy, relaxation techniques, and medication.
Reducing Sleep Anxiety
One of the best ways to reduce Sleep Anxiety is to reduce stress and anxiety. Here are several methods that are helpful:
• Meditation – By focusing on your breath, and breathing in and out deeply and slowly; you can visualize a peaceful scenery such as a beautiful forest or a quiet beach.
• Exercise Regularly – Regular exercise helps you both mentally and physically. It is a good outlet to release frustrations and it produces endorphins that are known to enhance your mood. A type of exercise that is very effective at relieving stress and anxiety is yoga.
• Prioritize – It is important to spend your energy and time on the truly important tasks, and learn to delegate.
• Soothing music. Listen to calm, soft music is helpful in relaxing the body and mind as well as lowering your blood pressure levels.
To Get More Sleep it is important that you establish a routine that you follow regularly; including getting to bed at the same time. Also, avoid stimulants such as nicotine, coffee, and chocolate prior to going to bed time. In addition, do not watch TV, pay the bills, or use a computer; instead meditate, listen to soft music, or read a book.
Your bedroom should be quiet, dark, and cool. Also, make sure that your mattress, pillow, and bed linens are comfortable and clean. If you find that Sleep Anxiety is preventing you from falling asleep, then it is best to speak to your doctor because you may need medication or possibly an herbal remedy.
