Sleep Disorders
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Sleep disorders are persistent disturbances in sleep that lead to significant distress or limitations in daily life. They can affect the ability to fall asleep, stay asleep, or the quality of sleep.

Typical Symptoms
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• Difficulty falling asleep

• Frequent nighttime awakenings

• Waking up too early in the morning

• Non-restorative sleep

• Daytime fatigue and exhaustion

• Difficulty concentrating and reduced performance

• Increased irritability or mood swings

Sleep disorders can occur on their own or in conjunction with other mental or physical illnesses.

In the ICD-10, non-organic sleep disorders are classified under code F51, among others.

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Prevalence
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Sleep disorders are very common. Many people experience temporary sleep problems, while chronic sleep disorders affect about 5–10% of the population.

Treatment
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Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is based on the premise that sleep disorders are perpetuated by the interaction of distressing thoughts, tension, and unhealthy sleep habits. Often, worries about sleep further exacerbate sleep problems.

Treatment Goals:
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• Identify and change unhealthy sleep habits

• Stabilize the sleep-wake cycle

• Question distressing thoughts about sleep

• Reduce physical and mental tension

• Learn better ways to manage stress

• Improve sleep quality in the long term

• Build confidence and trust in one’s own ability to sleep

• Prevent relapse