Sleep issues
Your body and mind need sleep in order to function properly. But actually getting a good night's sleep isn’t always so simple. Luckily, we've got some hints on things you can do to deal with sleep disturbances, sleep issues and sleep disorders like insomnia. Start your journey to a good night’s sleep with our resources below.
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Frequently asked questions
Sleep is important for both physical and mental wellbeing. Sleep plays an important role for teens , like supporting learning, concentration, and mood. A lack of sleep can make things challenging in these areas, affecting daily functioning and even performance at school, uni or work.
Common sleep issues in young people include:
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sleep disorders , like insomnia , which make it hard to get consistent, quality sleep each night
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sleep disturbances, which refers to a range of things that stop you from getting to and staying asleep that aren’t categorised as sleep disorders.
Things that can contribute to these types of sleep problems include stress , anxiety , depression , and unhelpful lifestyle habits. There could also be underlying medical reasons why you might be experiencing sleep problems, so it’s important to check it out as early as you can. In the meantime, get some tips from a registered psychologist about improving your sleep .
‘Sleep disturbance’ is a broad non-medical term that refers to a disruption in typical sleep patterns that isn’t considered a disorder. It usually refers to general disruptions to the quality and quantity of sleep.
Unlike specific sleep disorders like insomnia or sleep apnea, sleep disturbances can come and go and may be more related to factors like stress or environmental changes.
Yes, some people with ADHD can experience sleep issues . This includes difficulty falling asleep, restless sleep, or inconsistent sleep patterns. The hyperactivity and impulsivity associated with ADHD can also interfere with the ability to wind down at night, which impacts sleep quality. Read more about how ADHD can impact sleep .
Yes, sleep issues can also be related to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) . Challenges may include difficulty falling asleep, frequent awakenings, and irregular sleep patterns. Sensory sensitivities and anxiety, often associated with ASD, can also contribute to these sleep issues. Read more about how autism can impact sleep .
Sleeping pills can be effective for short-term relief of some sleep conditions, but are not typically recommended for long-term use due to potential side effects and the risk of dependency. It's important to consult a healthcare professional before using any sleep medication to ensure it's safe and appropriate for your situation. Read more about the safe use of sleeping pills .
A sleep specialist is a healthcare professional trained specifically to diagnose and treat sleep disorders. They can conduct assessments, recommend treatments, and provide guidance on improving sleep hygiene to help improve sleep quality. If you're experiencing chronic sleep issues that affect your daily life, consulting a sleep specialist may be beneficial. Read more about sleep specialists .
