In previous blogs we’ve discussed the importance of sleep for health and the complex relationship between smoking, nicotine withdrawal and sleep. Sleep is a key factor in quality of life and can be an important part of recovery from tobacco addiction.
Insomnia can mean difficulty falling asleep, inability to stay asleep, or waking too early and not being able to get back to sleep. In any case it can be pernicious, with an increasing negative affect on energy, mood, health and performance. And too frequently the frustrations related to insomnia adds to the problem.
At times, many adults experience some short-term insomnia which lasts for days or weeks. The culprit is frequently stress, a situational change, or a change in sleep habits. Simple changes such as increasing physical activity during the day, reducing or managing stress, adhering to a bedtime schedule, and turning off the ‘screens’ at night can help one return to restful sleep.
If sleep problems become chronic, a visit to your healthcare provide can help. A sleep habit review of overnight sleep study might be indicated to define the problem. Treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, light therapy, and medications can work wonders in resolving chronic sleep problems.
Sleep is important. Most people need 7-9 hours of sleep per night to be at their best. If you are having problems getting a restful sleep, or the sleep you need, take steps to address it.
Michael V. Burke, Ed.D
Program Director and NDC Counselor/ CTTS
