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Getting a good night's sleep is critical for human functioning. Sleep is our body's way to relax and recharge. However, as anyone who has suffered from insomnia knows, a lack of sleep can have far-reaching effects. Many times, insomnia will go away on its own. Other times, sufferers will need to seek treatment. When treating insomnia, it is important to determine what is causing it prior to just treating the symptoms. Insomnia could be related to anxiety, depression, or other physical or psychological ailments. In these cases, it is necessary to treat the ailment, rather than the sleep symptoms. Treating the illness will help to resolve the symptoms.

If insomnia can't be linked to a physical or psychological condition, it may be necessary to treat the symptoms. The good news is that there are many different types of treatment available. Treatment can be divided into two broad categories - behavioral or medicinal.

Behavioral therapies include different lifestyle changes. Making certain changes in your daily routine can help create a good night's rest. Experts suggest using your bed only for its intended purpose to sleep in and having a peaceful sleep environment. Using your bed for other purposes such as reading, watching television, or talking on the phone can confuse your body. Keeping the bed as a sacred source of sleep will train your body to sleep when in the bed. Experts also suggest keeping a set sleep schedule. Go to bed each night at the same time and rise each morning at the same time even on weekends. This will help your body maintain a reliable sleep schedule. As tempting as it is to sleep late on the weekend, maintaining a set schedule will keep your sleep pattern regulated. Also avoid taking naps as this also interferes with your regular sleep pattern. Sometimes an increase in physical activity can help you sleep better. Use caution though when exercising late at night as this could cause an increase in energy that could cause insomnia. Changes in what you eat or drink throughout the day could help too. Avoid caffeine late in the day as this could keep you awake. Drinks such as chamomile tea can have calming effects on your body. Pay attention to the food and drink you consume to determine if this has any effect on your ability to sleep.

Medicinal therapies are also available but should be pursued with caution. Treatments range from over-the-counter products such as Tylenol PM or Unisom to prescription products like Ambien or Rozerem. These therapies should only be used on an intermittent basis and under the treatment of a licensed physician. Many doctors suggest prescription drugs as the last alternative as some of them can be habit-forming when used for any length of time. While not FDA regulated or approved, certain supplements have such as melatonin or valerian have worked for many people. As with any supplements, it is a good idea to consult your physician for advice to avoid any potentially dangerous reactions.

If you are suffering from insomnia on a regular basis, it is important to get treatment. Getting a restful 7-9 hours of sleep each day is critical for the proper functioning of our bodies. Sweet dreams!

Learn more about this author, April Mims.
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