Sleep Problems: Swiping Away our Rest

​Do you use your cell phone before bed to distract yourself into sleep? Let me assure you, its most likely contributing to sleep disturbance.  Did you know, many people entering psychotherapy for help with their mental health experience sleep problems. In fact between 50 % to 80 % of adults who seek mental health help have sleep struggles, compared to about 10% to 18% of the average population. 

People entering therapy or counselling may have sleep disorders, but most often they have difficulty falling asleep and ruminate or worry - or they wake up multiple times in the night.  Some therapy clients may be suffering from insomnia, a difficulty getting to and staying asleep – or sleep deprivation, a lifestyle that continually deprives a person of enough opportunity to sleep.  While short term sleep deprivation may lead to short term elevated mood and energy states, in those prone to bipolar disorder can be a red flag.  Poor quality sleep and deprivation of sleep overall is related to poor cognitive outcomes and mood dysregulation. 

Sleep problems are seen a lot in psychotherapy when people struggle with mood, anxiety and ADHD.  We often overlook the importance of sleep when we are struggling.  At our clinic, some of our therapists do a very thorough initial assessment that includes sleep questions, others do it informally as they get to know the goals you bring to therapy.  All of the therapists at Creative Transitions understand the importance of quality sleep.  We will help you to work on sleep “hygiene”.  We will remind you and coach you to get away from your devices (this is so important) before bed.  We may teach mindfulness and other relaxation skills to help you clear your mind.  We may work with CBT to help you direct your focus in order to reduce the anxiety you may have about waking up or losing sleep, so you can fall back asleep more readily.  Please reach out and discuss any sleep concerns with your therapist.  We are also open and willing to talk with you doctor with your expressed consent, if need be.  Be well rested and restored.