A lack of good quality sleep each night can affect many areas of our health and wellbeing. The average person needs between 7-9 hours of sleep each night to feel well rested and wake up alert and focused the next day. Good quality sleep also helps us to lower our stress levels so that we are able to complete tasks without overwhelm the following day.

Short periods of poor quality sleep are relatively normal for a lot of people. Our lives can often become very busy especially during times of notable change such as changing jobs, moving house, having a new baby etc. Naturally, this can mean that we experience broken sleep or find it harder than usual to fall asleep. However, if poor quality sleep persists, it is advised you seek specialist help to discuss the root cause of your sleep disturbance.

The most common symptoms of those who experience periods of poor quality sleep include:
-Memory loss
-Irritability
-Fatigue
-Headaches
-Upset stomach

Unfortunately, long term sleep challenges can lead to physical and mental health complications such as diabetes, heart disease, depression, anxiety and more. The cause of your sleep challenge could stem from a sleep disorder such as sleep apnea, circadian rhythm disorder, chronic insomnia, narcolepsy. This is certainly worth investigating in order to obtain the best support in obtaining a potential diagnosis.

A diagnosis of chronic insomnia is usually given to an individual who has experienced consistently poor or broken sleep for a 3 month period or more. They may experience difficulties falling asleep at the beginning of the night, trouble falling back to sleep in the middle of the night or perhaps wake very early for the day. A person experiencing chronic insomnia, is unlikely to benefit purely from improved sleep hygiene. Instead, a treatment plan from a trained professional can help them through this tough period of sleep.

Cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-i) is the leading response to insomnia with a 94% success rate. This type of therapy can also be beneficial for an individual whom is looking to come away from sleeping aids or pills.

If you have been experiencing difficulties with your sleep and would like to speak to a trained professional, please contact Central Health’s Sleep Specialist, Gemma Fisk.

Contact +852 2824 0822 or enquiries@centralhealth.com.hk to book an appointment