Insomnia is derived from the Latin term for “no sleepâ€, it is characterized by difficulty in falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking too early in the morning. Certain experts also agree that non-restorative sleep can be related to insomnia. This condition can cause irritability, impaired performance, and daytime fatigue. Insomnia is not as uncommon as you think, it is estimated that 60% of Americans are suffering from this condition.
Insomnia can be either primary or secondary. Primary insomnia means that the inability to sleep itself is the main problem; it is not due to other health issues. Secondary insomnia occurs because other health problems interfere with sleep. The worst form of insomnia is chronic insomnia, which occurs at least thrice a week and has the duration of one month or more.
Various treatment options are available for chronic insomnia, including drug medications and behavioral therapy. In most cases, the behavioral technique is preferred because of its long term positive effect on the patient. Studies reveal that medications are equally effective in making people sleep, but it does not cure the condition, it merely masks it. In addition, frequent and prolonged use may result in drug dependency.
Behavioral therapy is effective for all age groups. This technique involves stimulus control, cognitive behavioral therapy, paradoxical intention, progressive muscle relaxation, biofeedback, sleep restrictions, and imaginary tasks. All the above-mentioned behavioral treatments are effective, though its result may vary from person to person.
Stimulus control, in particular, is now considered to be a standard behavioral treatment for primary chronic insomnia. The treatment basically helps the individual regain the perception that beds are for sleeping. It is simple in the sense that you are only required to go to bed when you’re ready to sleep. And if you’re unable to sleep, you should get up and go to another room. Maintaining a consistent waking-up time is also part of this treatment.
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