by Jennifer Eblin

Created on: September 18, 2007

You lay in bed for hours at a time, staring at the walls and counting sheep while trying to fall asleep. Or you may fall asleep, only to wake up every few hours and find yourself flipping through the channels of late night infomercials. More than likely you are not even aware of why you are suffering, or if it has a name.

Some of the more common sleep disorders include Bruxism, the grinding of the teeth; DSPS, falling asleep or waking up when you do not plan, and Night Terrors. Also included on the list of common sleep disorders are Narcolepsy, spontaneously falling asleep, Sleepwalking, and Restless Leg Syndrome. Any of those conditions can lead to insomnia. Your insomnia may also be caused by stress, poor diet, or depression.

The treatment of the sleep disorder depends on the condition diagnosed, and sometimes the amount of time the condition has existed. A physical problem condition such as Narcolepsy is usually treated with medication, while a psychological problem involves therapy first, or in some cases a combination of both. Therapy combined with medication has been shown to work wonders.

For those without long term problems, looking for a quick solution to their insomnia, there are some options. An over the counter sleeping pill can work in as little as 30 minutes after one dose. There are also more natural solutions such as a deep breathing technique, which reduces stress, lowers the pulse, and calms the mind. Another option is to listen to white noise when trying to fall asleep.

You should also focus on clearing the mind before sleep. Avoid sugary snacks and carbohydrate laden foods within an hour of sleep, and stop caffeine at least two hours before bed. Turn off all the lights before going to bed, and block out as much outside light as possible. At the same time, try to avoid any stimulation including reading and television. You should also take special care to use the bed for sleeping, and not as an office or lounging area like we all tend to do. You brain begins to associate the space with other things beyond sleeping, which can make it harder to turn off and fall asleep.

Some who suffer from sleep disorders swear by a glass of warm milk. Studies have shown that chemicals and nutrients in the milk can release endorphins and relax the body, but this doesn't always work for everyone. The same holds true for counting sheep; they are more old wives tales. When I have problems sleeping, I take half of an over the counter sleeping pill; a full dose is too much for my body.

If you are experiencing a sleeping disorder, try one of the tips above, and if the problem persists, see a doctor.

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