Disordered Sleeping

Disordered sleeping refers to abnormal patterns, behaviors, or disruptions in sleep that negatively impact the ability to fall asleep, stay asleep, or achieve restful and restorative sleep. It encompasses a wide range of sleep-related issues, often categorized as sleep disorders. These disturbances can affect physical health, mental well-being, and overall quality of life.

Common Types of Sleep Disorders

  1. Insomnia

    • Difficulty falling or staying asleep.

    • Can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term).

  2. Sleep Apnea

    • Interrupted breathing during sleep, often causing snoring and daytime fatigue.

    • Two types: obstructive sleep apnea (physical blockage of the airway) and central sleep apnea (brain fails to send proper signals to muscles controlling breathing).

  3. Narcolepsy

    • Excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden "sleep attacks."

    • May involve loss of muscle tone (cataplexy) or hallucinations.

  4. Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)

    • An uncontrollable urge to move the legs, often accompanied by unpleasant sensations.

    • Symptoms are worse at night, disrupting sleep.

  5. Circadian Rhythm Disorders

    • Mismatch between the internal biological clock and the external environment (e.g., jet lag, shift work disorder).

  6. Parasomnias

    • Unusual behaviors during sleep, such as sleepwalking, night terrors, or sleep talking.

  7. Hypersomnia

    • Excessive sleepiness during the day despite adequate nighttime sleep.

Common Causes of Disordered Sleeping

  • Stress and Anxiety: Mental health conditions can interfere with sleep cycles.

  • Medical Conditions: Chronic pain, asthma, or neurological disorders can disrupt sleep.

  • Lifestyle Factors: Poor sleep hygiene, irregular schedules, or substance use (e.g., caffeine, alcohol).

  • Medications: Certain medications can interfere with sleep.

  • Environmental Factors: Noise, light, or uncomfortable sleeping conditions.

Symptoms

  • Difficulty falling or staying asleep.

  • Excessive daytime fatigue.

  • Irritability or mood changes.

  • Poor concentration or memory issues.

  • Unintended naps or sleep episodes during the day.

Treatments

  • Behavioral Therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) and other therapies to address sleep issues.

  • Lifestyle Changes: Improving sleep hygiene, such as creating a regular sleep schedule, avoiding caffeine, and limiting screen time before bed.

  • Medications: Sleep aids or treatments for underlying conditions (used with caution and under medical supervision).

  • Medical Devices: CPAP machines for sleep apnea.

  • Specialist Intervention: Consulting sleep specialists for diagnosis and tailored treatment.

If you or someone you know is struggling with Disordered Sleeping, The Soke offers assessment and treatment pathways for both adults and children, in our Chelsea and Wimbledon sites. Please contact our Client Services team to discuss your symptoms - or the symptoms of your loved one - so that they can guide you towards the most appropriate solution to suit your particular circumstances. They can also be reached on 020 7139 5051.