Adequate sleep is necessary for physical, mental, and emotional health. When individuals are deprived of sleep on a regular basis, their brain function can be affected and may result in difficulties with solving problems, reacting to situations, controlling emotions, and/or making decisions. Sleep deprivation can also be associated with risk-taking behaviors, mood swings, irritability, and even depression.

Insomnia, Nightmares and the Military

Insomnia and nightmares have become a common problem for people who have served in the military, particularly those who have been deployed. It was noted by U.S. Medicine that, ”…Insomnia is reported by up to 54% of the two million men and women who have served in various American combat efforts since Sept. 11, 2001, compared with up to 22% of civilian adults. Not only is insomnia a more frequent problem for servicemembers and veterans, but other sleep disruptions also are common.” U.S. Medicine is a monthly publication catering to healthcare providers that serve the Department of Defense, the U.S. Public Health Service, and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

What is Insomnia?

Insomnia is defined as a persistent pattern of sleep disruption involving difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. People with insomnia can toss and turn for hours until they are tired of being in bed, and yet they remain wide awake. A common complaint of those with insomnia is that the slightest noise may wake them up and when they are awakened, it can be difficult to go back to sleep.

The Prevalence of Nightmares

Nightmares may also be a common disturbance for people who have experienced traumatic events. This means that people who have a trauma history may be at higher risk for nightmares. These nightmares may be connected to specific incidents, or can just as easily be related to intense emotions connected to past trauma. Nightmares can be recurring and so intense the individual having them can wake up in a sweat.

One thing to remember about nightmares is that they can be a symptom of PTSD. If you are experiencing nightmares leading to insomnia you are not alone, therapy can help.

How Can I Stop Insomnia?

You deserve to sleep well and wake feeling well rested. Your body needs it, your brain needs it, and if insomnia and nightmares are robbing you of sleep, you may feel the need to do something about it. Call Carolina Counseling Services – Fayetteville, NC and begin to address your insomnia with a licensed, independently contracted therapist. Allow them to help you to work through your nightmares, overcome insomnia, and find new ways to claim the rest you so rightfully deserve. Call today to schedule your first appointment.

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