Sleep Problems

Having trouble getting to sleep or staying asleep?

‘’Living with poor sleep and its consequences is not only very common, but it is in all likelihood degrading Britain's health’’ Professor Colin Espie of Glasgow University

Sleep is an essential aspect of our physical and mental functioning. It allows our body and mind to rest, recharge and process the events of our busy lives. When sleep becomes a problem we realise just how important it is to our mental and physical well being.  If a regular occurrence and interfering with your daily life, you may be suffering from a sleep problem.

Sleep problems can disturb both your ability to sleep at night, but also a your ability function during the day. A person with a sleep problem may have difficulty falling asleep or difficulty staying asleep, may wake early in the morning and / or may have poor quality sleep.

Symptoms can include:

• Difficulty falling asleep

• Waking up during the night, along with trouble falling back to sleep

• Non-restorative sleep

• Fatigue or low energy

• Cognitive impairment including poor concentration

• Mood problems

• Interpersonal relationship problems

• Difficulty at work or school

• Behavioural issues

Sleep problems are commonly experienced alongside other problems of anxiety, depression and pain.
 

The negative cycle of sleep problems. Frequently having trouble sleeping can be a frustrating and debilitating experience. People with sleep problems describe negative and frustrating cycles of sleeping badly at night which leave you feeling tired in the morning.  Any energy you have quickly disappears throughout the day and no matter how exhausted you feel at night, you still have trouble sleeping. And so the cycle begins again. 
 

Impact of a sleep disorders. Sleep problems can cause a you to wake up feeling exhausted, or leave you feeling sleepy during the day. If left unaddressed, prolonged problems with sleep can have a very negative impact on your mental and physical health.  These can lead to memory problems, weight gain, impaired job performance, reduced immune system functioning, reduced energy levels and lowered mood.  They can also leave you feeling less resilient to manage daily stressors. 
 

My Therapist Online can help you

If you are suffering from one of the problems listed above, then you may benefit from speaking to one of our therapists. There is good evidence that cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a very effective treatment for insomnia.  Many of our therapists are extremely experienced in the treatment of sleep problems, both as an individual problem and when combined with other issues such as anxiety and depression. 
 

Recommended reading to help with sleep problems

  • Overcoming Insomnia and Sleep Problems: A Self Help Guide Using Cognitive Behavioural Techniques. By Colin Espie (2006).

    This is a highly recommended practical guide for individuals who are struggling with sleep problems. The author, a sleep expert, uses a cognitive behavioural (CBT) approach to help individuals overcome insomnia and other sleep difficulties.

    It provides step-by-step instructions for developing good sleep habits and overcoming common sleep problems, such as difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, and waking up feeling refreshed.

    The book covers a range of topics, including sleep hygiene, relaxation techniques, and how to change negative thought patterns that contribute to sleep problems. The author also provides a range of practical exercises and self-reflection questions to help individuals identify and address the root causes of their sleep problems.






  • The Insomnia Workbook: This comprehensive guide to getting better sleep - by sleep specialist Stephanie Watson.

    The author, Stephanie, offers practical strategies for improving sleep, including tips for sleep hygiene, mindfulness practices, and lifestyle changes. The book also includes a range of exercises and self-reflection questions to help individuals assess their sleep habits and develop a personalised sleep plan.


  • Overcoming Insomnia A Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Approach, Workbook (Treatments That Work) - by Jack D. Edinger (Author), Colleen E. Carney

    This is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their sleep quality and overcome sleep problems. The authors' expertise and the use of a structured, self-help approach make this book a practical and effective guide for anyone seeking to achieve better sleep.

    It is a self-help guide for individuals struggling with sleep problems. The authors use a cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) approach to help readers overcome insomnia and other sleep difficulties.

    The workbook is structured as a step-by-step program, providing practical exercises and self-reflection questions to help individuals identify and address the root causes of their sleep problems. The authors cover a range of topics, including sleep hygiene, relaxation techniques, and how to change negative thought patterns that contribute to sleep problems.


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At My Therapist Online, we listen to the problems you are facing and match you with the right therapist for your individual needs. You can meet with them for a free initial consultation to be sure it is a good match before starting your therapy.