Better Sleep Better Health

Many people around the world suffer from insomnia. There are treatments such as pharmaceuticals, but often concerns over cost and side effects turn people off of using them. But now individuals who cannot sleep have a safe and effective alternative: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a novel approach to dealing with insomnia without the need for medications. Instead of masking the problem, CBT focuses on addressing the factors that cause chronic insomnia. These factors can be personal, physiological, cognitive, and behavioral. According to the AASM, the therapy is based on two premises. First, that some of the underlying personal and physiological factors can be directly altered. Second, that maladaptive thoughts and behaviors are learned and that they serve to perpetuate insomnia. If they are learned, then they can be “unlearned” by the CBT process.  The process of the therapy typically consists of individual meetings with an insomnia specialist over several weeks. The specialist may use multiple techniques to help the patient. These techniques can include alternative medications, relaxation methods such as meditation and biofeedback, adjustment of sleep schedules, and bright light therapy. When performed correctly, CBT can be as effective in treating insomnia as medications.
Many doctors are still not aware of the existence and efficacy of CBT for insomnia. It’s best to find a sleep specialist that is specifically trained in administering CBT. Oregon Sleep Associates currently offers Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for insomnia. For more information call 503-288-5201 or visit us online at www.oregonsleepassociates.com.