Connections Between Mental Health Symptoms And Poor Sleep
This is a guest article by Lucy Wyndham
More than one-half of insomnia cases occur in individuals with anxiety, depression or psychological stress. Across the globe, health officials find that sleep disorders contribute to public health issues, and mental illness is at the core of this conversation. Cumulatively, a combination of effective mental health treatment and good sleep hygiene solutions can help combat sleep-related disorders and promote psychological well-being.
Sleep and Mental Health Risks
Traditionally, insomnia and other sleep disorders as symptoms were viewed as symptoms of psychological disorders. But the origins of both cases are more of a “chicken and the egg” phenomenon: the scientific community now believes that sleep problems directly contribute to psychiatric disorders. By extension, treating a sleep disorder may also help alleviate symptoms of poor mental health, if the two exist concurrently. In fact, researchers at the University of Oxford Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute reported a 60% improvement rate in mental health symptoms through treating sleep-related issues.
Safe Remedies For Sleep
Fortunately, there are a number of medicinal and non medicinal solutions for addressing a lack of sleep. A psychiatrist can work with you to devise a medication routine that promotes healthy sleep with minimal side effects. There are also a number of lifestyle choices you can make to encourage proper rest, such as turning off your smartphone and sleeping on a comfortable mattress. If you suspect your mattress is worn or filled with allergens, consult mattress reviews before purchasing a new one so that you find a mattress optimal for REM sleep. It is also important to stay active during the day: researchers from the University of Michigan recently reported that daytime exercise is linked to improved sleep performance in women over the age of 50, one of the demographics with the highest rate of sleep disturbances worldwide.
What Is Sleep Hygiene?
Sleep hygiene consists of a variety of different practices that are necessary for developing a quality sleep routine. Frequent sleep disturbances and daytime sleepiness often indicate poor sleep hygiene. To improve the quality of your sleep, experts recommend giving yourself a half hour to “unwind” before bed without looking at your smartphone, which can stimulate alertness. During the hours before bed, practicing mindfulness meditation reduces insomnia symptoms, particularly if you are feeling anxious. Meditation is also linked to a host of other positive health benefits, including reduced brain fog, more clarity, and better focus, all of which can contribute to eliminating mental health disorders.
Globally, the growing conversation about mental health needs to incorporate sleep and adequate solutions for addressing poor sleep routines. Ensuring proper sleep has tangible positive implications for treating mental illness, particularly for individuals struggling with anxiety and depressive thoughts at night.
