Anxiety keeps you up at night
Anxiety is a common mental disorder that affects millions of people around the world. It is characterized by excessive worry and fear that can interfere with daily life. Among the many effects anxiety can have on a person, sleep disturbance is a common one. Research has shown that anxiety and sleep are closely linked, with one often affecting the other.
People with anxiety often experience trouble sleeping, such as difficulty falling asleep, waking up frequently during the night, or waking up too early in the morning. The causes of sleep disturbance in people with anxiety are complex and diverse. Among these are obsessive thoughts that keep people from falling asleep, or keep them awake throughout the night. Additionally, the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as sweating, rapid heartbeat, or aching muscles, can make it hard to relax and fall asleep. Anxiety-induced nightmares or night terrors may also contribute to sleep disturbances.
The relationship between anxiety and sleep is a two-way street. While anxiety can cause sleep problems, lack of sleep can also worsen anxiety symptoms. People who don’t get enough sleep may feel more irritable, on edge, or anxious than those who do. Sleep loss can also lower people’s tolerance for stress and make them more emotionally reactive. This can cause a vicious cycle where anxiety leads to sleep problems, which in turn worsen anxiety symptoms.
Fortunately, there are several strategies people can use to manage anxiety and improve their sleep quality. Improving their sleep hygiene, the practice of healthy habits that promotes quality and duration of restorative sleep, are the most consistent way of improving sleep quantity and quality. Incorporating regular exercise into one’s daily routine can improve mood and sleep quality. Meditation or other relaxation techniques can calm the mind and reduce anxiety, helping people to fall asleep more easily. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) has also been shown to be effective in treating both anxiety and sleep disorders. CBT is a type of talk therapy that helps people identify and change negative thought patterns that contribute to anxiety, as well as behaviors that prevent them from sleeping well. ACT is a type of talk therapy that helps people with pain, stress and difficult emotions.
In conclusion, the relationship between anxiety and sleep is complex, and one can significantly impact the other. While anxiety can cause sleep disturbance and sleep problems can worsen anxiety, there are several strategies people can use to manage both. Incorporating regular exercise, practicing relaxation techniques, and trying CBT or ACT are all effective ways of improving sleep quality and reducing anxiety symptoms. By taking steps to better manage anxiety and improve sleep, individuals can significantly improve their overall health and well-being.
At Adjusting Compass Counseling, a strengths based, patient-centered approach is utilized, addressing the immediate and the underlying concerns that may be affecting sleep quality. Contact Tina@adjustingcompasscounseling.com to schedule an intake session to begin making positive changes to your sleep concerns now..
