Sleep and Mental Health: A Two-Way Street
/Expert Guidance From a Licensed Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Sleep and mental health are closely intertwined. Although scientists have never been able to pinpoint exactly why we need sleep, it’s widely accepted that sleep is necessary to restore both our brains and bodies.
According to the Harvard Mental Health Letter, sleep problems are common in patients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). In fact, patients with psychiatric disorders are more likely to experience sleep troubles than the general population. However, the relationship between sleep and mental health is a two-way street, meaning that an increased quality of sleep can actually improve a person’s mental health, and vice versa.
If you are struggling with sleep, talking to a therapist can help you identify the source of your troubles and discuss treatment options. Here are some of our concrete tips for better sleep hygiene and, ultimately, better mental health.
1. Reduce caffeine consumption after 3 p.m.
As anyone who’s had serious coffee jitters before knows, caffeine can disturb your sleep cycle up to six hours after it’s been consumed. If you drink caffeine, it’s best to consume it in the mid-morning for a boost that lasts the whole day — but doesn’t keep you up at night.
2. Shut down your screens an hour before bedtime.
Our devices, like cell phones and computers, emit blue light, tricking our brains into staying alert by suppressing the production of the sleep hormone melatonin. Powering down screens an hour before bedtime can offset the effects blue light has on the brain.
3. Practice relaxation techniques.
This can include meditation, yoga, reading, taking a bath, and deep breathing exercises.
4. Cognitive behavioral therapy.
Cognitive behavioral techniques can help patients address negative expectations surrounding sleep. A therapist will work with the patient to change the narrative, creating positive expectations for getting a good night's sleep.
About North Florida Learning and Behavioral Health
North Florida Learning and Behavioral Health is based in Jacksonville, Florida, and treats clients for a broad spectrum of concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief, loss, and relationship issues. Our practice specializes in therapy for learning disorders, including dyslexia and ADHD, for both children and adults.
Our practice also specializes in psychological testing services for a variety of learning disorders, dyslexia, and ADHD for both children and adults. Therapy treatment for these challenges are also available.
Schedule a psychological evaluation with our psychologist or therapy session with our licensed therapist today.