WHAT IS INSOMNIA?
A significant number of people complain of insomnia, or sleep-related problems, at some point in their life. A person with chronic insomnia has dissatisfaction with their sleep quality for most nights of the week and for a prolonged period of time. Various sleep problems include: difficulty initially falling asleep, waking up and being unable to go back to bed, waking up too early, and overall poor sleep quality.
Chronic insomnia can contribute to problems of physical functioning, emotional well-being, social problems, work difficulties, and can have a negative impact on mental health. A person with chronic insomnia can often feel trapped in the never-ending cycle of their sleep difficulties. There is no medicine that is the perfect remedy for sleep related- problems. This often contributes toward feeling that they are stuck with this problem indefinitely.
COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY FOR INSOMNIA (CBT-I)
Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is a short-term individual therapy program which guides individuals with insomnia through a series of steps to improve their sleep-related struggles. CBT-I helps promote ongoing, improved sleep through behavioral changes and alternative ways of responding to problematic sleep beliefs.
Dr. Spiegel utilizes CBT-I to help individuals improve their sleep and no longer suffer from insomnia. Over the course of approximately 4-8 sessions, Dr. Spiegel helps clients understand and address the underlying causes of their insomnia. Improved sleep is ultimately accomplished by:
Addressing any underlying problematic attitudes or beliefs about sleep
Maintaining an appropriate and consistent schedule for sleeping
Establishing a consistent bedtime routine
Engaging in sleep-promoting behaviors throughout the day (i.e. exercise; increased sunlight)
Relaxation strategies to reduce anxiety and stress
RESOURCES & MORE INFORMATION ON INSOMNIA
To learn more about insomnia, as well effective treatment for this diagnosis, see these recommended books:
Say Goodnight to Insomnia by Gregg Jacobs
The Insomnia Workbook for Teens by Michael Tompkins and Monique Thompson