• poor memory / forgetfulness
• a desire for caffeinated drinks (coffee, tea, cola, energy drinks)
• increased propensity for stress
• immune system problems (colds, skin problems)

There is much advice online regarding ways to establish healthy sleep practices. The most common advice centres around diet: avoid stimulants like caffeine and amphetamines, avoid alcohol and avoid eating late in the evening.

Natural sleep aids
There are many natural sleep remedies available over the counter and most contain valerian extract which comes from the root of the valerian plant. Valerian extract has natural sedative properties.

Prescription sleeping tablets
People have taken prescription sleeping tablets for many years, but we now know that they lose their effect quite quickly so it soon becomes necessary to take higher doses to get the same sleep-inducing effect. This can make sleeping pills quite addictive and the longer an individual takes them, the more likely they are to become dependant. Doctors will usually only prescribe sleeping tablets for short periods (less than 2 weeks) for occasions when someone is so distressed that sleep is impossible.

Sleep problems are often the result of emotional and psychological concerns. Worry, anxiety, fear, guilt, depression and relationship issues can all contribute to ongoing sleep problems. Sleep issues often arise in counselling and psychotherapy. An experienced therapist can help determine underlying causes of sleep-related problems and help restore healthy sleep patterns.

sources

www.wikipedia.com
Counting Sheep, the Science and Pleasures of Sleep and Dreams, Paul Martin, Flamingo (2003)
www.rcpsych.ac.uk/mentalhealthinformation/sleepproblems
www.sleepnet.com

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