Insomnia is diagnosed according to self-reported difficulties in falling asleep or maintaining sleep, or early morning awakenings, and associated daytime impairments. 7,8Īdvertisement Assessment of insomnia symptoms These include adverse physiological effects a heightened risk of hepatic, renal, respiratory and cardiac disorders daytime sedation cognitive impairments an increased risk of falls among the elderly and the development of dependence and withdrawal effects after long-term use. temazepam, diazepam, zolpidem, zopiclone), which are quick to prescribe but are associated with high rates of adverse cognitive and psychomotor side effects. 5,6 Patients seeking treatment often expect to receive sedative-hypnotic medications (e.g. However, 90% of patients presenting to general practice with insomnia are prescribed sedative-hypnotic medications, with a quarter of a million Australians consuming these medications each night, despite widespread recognition that this is suboptimal clinical practice. These require strategic behavioural and cognitive modifications to break the cycle of poor sleep habits and self-fulfilling worry about chronic poor sleep. 3,4Ĭhronic insomnia is well recognised to be perpetuated by underlying psychological or behavioural causes. 2 Insomnia is a risk factor for depression and anxiety and contributes to 2.5- and twofold increases in motor vehicle and workplace accidents, respectively. It costs Australia $11 billion annually due to its negative impacts on physical and mental health, healthcare costs and reduced productivity. 1 Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder and impairs the lives of 10 to 30% of the Australian population, which, at a conservative estimate, equates to 2.5 million people. Chronic insomnia is characterised by difficulties initiating or maintaining sleep, with associated daytime impairments, lasting for at least three months.

Severe insomnia treatment options