Caffeine, Insomnia and Depression
Caffeine can affect sleep patterns which, in turn, will affect mood. We do need a certain amount of rest. Sleep, in itself, is one of my favourite topics…but a vast area to discuss in this one section. You can read more on the importance of sleep here. Everyone differs on how much sleep they need. For an adult, the average would be about 8 hours a night, give or take an hour, depending on the individual.
Symptoms of insomnia include:
- difficulty falling asleep
- waking up frequently during the night
- difficulty returning to sleep
- waking up too early in the morning
- unrefreshing sleep
- daytime sleepiness
- difficulty concentrating
- irritability
Insomnia is linked to depression and poor overall health.
Cognitive-behavioural hypnotherapy can help with issues causing insomnia, but there are some other things you can do to help.
Relaxation, yoga and guided imagery can all help to prepare you for sleep. Exercise earlier in the day will help to reduce stress and promote better sleep. Sleep hygiene is extremely important in helping you to maintain a balanced mood.
The Sleep Foundation advises you to:
- Consume less or no caffeine, particularly late in the day
- Avoid alcohol and nicotine, especially close to bedtime
- Exercise, but not within three hours before bedtime
- Avoid naps, particularly in the late afternoon or evening
- Keep a sleep diary to identify your sleep habits and patterns that you can share with your doctor
It is also useful to keep a sleep diary if you are an insomniac who intends visiting me for hypnotherapy. It will help to ascertain the extent of the problem, and I can advise you accordingly.
Alyson Dunlop, MA (Hons), DipCBH
I am Alyson and this is my website.
Achilles Healing Hypnotherapy 