Insomnia Psychology Definition

Insomnia Psychology Definition

Insomnia is a sleep disorder in which individuals struggle to fall or stay asleep, leading to daytime impairments such as fatigue or difficulties with concentration and attention. This medical condition can affect people of all ages and be caused by many factors.

The two primary types of insomnia are initial (sleep onset) and middle (maintenance). About two-thirds of insomniacs suffer from either type.

A person suffering from psychophysiological insomnia experiences an uptick in thoughts and feelings of anxiety upon awakening. This is similar to what people feel when attending a play or having a job interview; it’s stage fright that puts the body on high alert.

Insomnia can also be the result of a long-term mental health issue such as depression or bipolar disorder. If this issue continues to keep you up at night and disrupts your life, then insomnia could be to blame.

Cognitive behavior therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy are two behavioral approaches to insomnia that aim to help you recognize and accept your symptoms of sleep disruption, as well as learn strategies for falling asleep quickly and staying asleep throughout the night.

Treatment options can be tailored to each individual’s individual needs and may include prescription medications. A therapist can collaborate with you to decide which techniques work best for your specific sleep situation and lifestyle.

The most successful methods to treat insomnia are pharmacologic and behavioral therapies that draw upon accurate neurobehavioral and neurobiological data. A therapist can offer a holistic approach to sleep that not only promotes better night’s rest but also lessens its detrimental effects on quality of life.