Written by Tialara Harris (Psychologist)
Good sleep is fundamental to mental and physical health. However, many people struggle with sleep difficulties like insomnia, where falling asleep or staying asleep becomes a challenge. These sleep issues can, in turn, affect mental health, creating a vicious cycle that can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, psychology offers effective solutions for managing sleep problems, improving overall well-being, and breaking that cycle.
The Impact of Sleep on Mental Health
The relationship between sleep and mental health is reciprocal: poor sleep can negatively affect mental health, and mental health difficulties can worsen sleep. Research consistently shows that poor sleep is linked to increased risks of developing mental health conditions like anxiety,
depression, and stress. For instance, when you’re sleep-deprived, your brain struggles to process emotions, leading to irritability, heightened stress, and even feelings of anxiety. This, in turn, can make it even harder to get a restful night’s sleep, creating a downward spiral of poor
mental health and sleep.
On the other hand, good sleep is vital for emotional regulation, memory consolidation, and cognitive functioning. When you consistently get enough restorative sleep, your ability to manage stress improves, your mood stabilises, and your overall mental clarity increases. Sleep plays a key role in strengthening coping mechanisms, so it’s crucial to address any sleep difficulties before they begin to significantly affect mental health and functional capacity.
CBT-I: The Gold Standard Treatment for Insomnia
One of the most effective treatments for insomnia is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I). This evidence-based therapy addresses the thoughts, behaviours, and patterns that contribute to insomnia, helping you develop healthier sleep habits and beliefs. Unlike medications, which typically offer only temporary relief and come with the risk of dependency, CBT-I treats the root causes of insomnia, creating long-lasting results.
Studies show that CBT-I is the gold standard for treating insomnia, working for approximately 80% of individuals with this condition. It has been proven to be as effective, if not more so, than sleep medications, without the risks of addiction or harmful side effects. However, despite its
proven effectiveness, CBT-I is not as widely available as sleep medications. Many people still rely on medications to manage their insomnia, but these drugs often fail to address the underlying causes and can even worsen sleep problems over time. CBT-I, on the other hand, offers a sustainable, non-addictive solution and provides lasting relief.
How Seeing a Psychologist Can Help
If you’re struggling with sleep difficulties, seeing a psychologist can make a significant difference. A psychologist trained in CBT-I can help you understand your sleep patterns, identify the negative thought cycles that may be contributing to your insomnia, and work with you to develop healthier sleep habits. Through a trauma-informed, client-centered approach, they will ensure that the treatment is tailored to your specific needs and preferences, empowering you to regain control over your sleep.
In addition, psychologists can support you in addressing any underlying mental health concerns—such as depression, anxiety, or trauma—that may be impacting your sleep. By building coping skills and learning how to manage the mental health aspects of your sleep difficulties, you can improve your sleep quality and overall well-being.
Conclusion
Sleep difficulties, particularly insomnia, can have a profound impact on mental health. The good news is that effective, evidence-based treatments like CBT-I are available to help you overcome these challenges. Unlike medications, which may only offer temporary relief, CBT-I addresses the root causes of insomnia, offering long-term solutions without the risks of addiction or side effects. If you are struggling with poor sleep, working with a psychologist can help you regain control, improve your sleep, and break the cycle of stress and anxiety.
Remember, help is available—and you don’t have to struggle with sleep on your own.