Sleep Issues

Sleep makes us feel better, but its significance goes way beyond just boosting our your mood, energy levels,  or erasing the dark circles below our eyes. Sufficient sleep is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle and can benefit your heart, weight, mind, and more.

It appears obvious that sleep has its benefits.  Good sleep is necessary for optimal health and can affect hormone levels, mood and weight. Is it difficult for you to fall asleep or stay asleep through the night? Do you wake up feeling tired or feel very sleepy during the day, even if you have had enough sleep? You might have a sleep disorder.

Facts about Sleep Issues

From the National Sleep Foundation:

• Americans report sleeping an average of 7 hours and 36 minutes a night
• On workdays, the average bedtime was 10:55 PM and average wake time was 6:38 AM
• Average sleep time was 40 minutes longer on non-work days
• Americans aged 18-29 reported latest bedtimes
• Sleep duration did not differ between men and women
• Only 18% of individuals would choose to sleep if they had an extra hour in the day

Possible Causes of Sleep Issues

According to the Cleveland Clinic:

• Physical (such as ulcers)
• Medical (such as asthma)
• Psychiatric (such as depression and anxiety disorders)
• Environmental (such as alcohol)
• Genetics
• Working the night shift
• Medicines
• Aging

Symptoms of Sleep Issues

• irritability or sleepiness during the day
• difficulty staying awake when sitting still, watching television or reading
• falling asleep or feeling exhausted while driving
• difficulty concentrating
• often getting told by others that you look tired
• slow reactions
• trouble controlling emotions
• drinking large amount if caffeinated beverages
• feeling like taking a nap almost every day

Psychiatrists & Therapists specializing in Sleep Issues:

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