DO YOU HAVE INSOMNIA?

Author: Suzanne Wirth
Date: 2015-01-28

Insomnia is defined by the Mayo Clinic of Health as, a persistent disorder that can make it hard to fall asleep, hard to stay asleep or both, despite the opportunity for adequate sleep. With insomnia, you usually awaken feeling unrefreshed, which takes a toll on your ability to function during the day. It was estimated by USA Today that 70,000,000 Americans suffer with sleep disorders. It is becoming more often than not.

Many people have had trouble most their lives with sleeping. For them it is more than an occasional night of tossing and turning. They could even have a sleep disorder and need to see a specialist called a sleep Doctor. It is a long process to be diagnosed with a sleep disorder. However, it can be done! You can go to a “sleep doctor” and they will complete a sleep study on you. After receiving your test results the doctor can help you figure out what to do. And with their help rest is on its way.

After talking with one of my children about the trials and tribulations of insomnia I can say that stress definitely is a huge factor. If you are upset about something it will creep into your mind while you are trying to rest and you will not be able to settle down. Another thing that I have noticed is “screen time” can have an impact too. It is recommended that you turn off all screens for at least an hour before bed. Your body has to relax and in this day and age that can be a rough thing to do. Exercise is also something that may complicate your night of rest. Work with being done with your exercise at least four hours before trying to rest. The reason for this is because even your blood flow has to be at a resting state to completely unwind and settle for the night. You need sleep to function. We are only our best when we get enough rest!