Insomnia
Do I have Insomnia?
If you are having sleep problems or think that you may have Insomnia, the first thing you should do is talk to your doctor.
Your GP can assess your condition and refer you to an accredited sleep specialist or Sleep Psychologist for further investigation. If your GP decides a Sleep Psychologist is the best therapy for you, they can write a Mental Health Care Plan, which will allow you to receive Medicare Rebates. About Sleep Clinics have a Sleep Psychologist - Ms Marni Ahmer - who has trained at the Repat Hospital in Adelaide who works with us by remote access. Phone us to make an appointment.
We have a Sleep Therapy referral form available if you would like to take it to your GP.
For medically approved information about Insomnia, please follow this link to information at the Australasian Sleep Association.
About Insomnia
Insomnia affects approximately one third of Australian adults, with sufferers commonly reporting difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep or feeling the quality of sleep was inadequate on a frequent basis. Of these, approximately 5% report chronic problems with insomnia, and adults suffering with depression, anxiety and stress are amongst the highest risk group. Women and older adults are also more likely to report symptoms of insomnia and are prone to a higher prevalence of chronic insomnia.
Lack of sleep is associated with many negative health outcomes including impaired concentration and memory, an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes and obesity, as well as industrial and motor vehicle accidents. Some research has also suggested associations between insomnia and immune system function. In addition, the cost of insomnia to the Australian economy is estimated at $11 billion annually in medical and lost productivity costs.
There are many effective non-drug treatments for Insomnia and Behavioural Sleep Problems. Cognitive Behavioural Treatment (CBT) strategies are very effective in resolving insomnia by treating the cause of the insomnia with long lasting results. Other behavioural strategies and education about sleep have also been shown to be effective in resolving sleep problems in adults, adolescents and children.