How is insomnia treated?
If insomnia is caused by a short-term change in the sleep/wake schedule, as with jet lag, your sleep schedule may return to normal on its own. If your insomnia makes it hard for you to function during the day, talk to your doctor. Treatment for chronic insomnia includes: • Finding and treating any medical conditions or mental health problems. • Looking for routines or behaviors, like drinking alcohol at night, that may lead to the insomnia or make it worse, and stopping (or reducing) them. • Possibly using sleeping pills, although controversy surrounds the long-term use of sleeping pills. You should talk to your doctor about the risks and side-effects. • Trying one or more methods to improve sleep, such as relaxation therapy, sleep restriction therapy, and reconditioning. • Relaxation Therapy. This type of therapy aims to reduce stress and body tension. As a result, your mind is able to stop “racing,” the muscles can relax, and restful sleep can occur. • Sleep Restriction. Some women s
