Fact 14: Psychological and Emotional Aspects
Overthinking, especially about past events or anxieties about the future, is a common bedfellow of insomnia. The quiet of the night often amplifies these ruminative thoughts, creating a cycle of anxiety and sleeplessness. Recognizing and addressing these thought patterns is often the key to breaking this cycle.
Significant life events, such as the loss of a loved one or experiencing trauma, can lead to acute sleep disturbances. While it’s a natural part of the grieving process, without appropriate coping mechanisms or support, it can transition into chronic insomnia.
In today’s fast-paced world, chronic stress has become almost ubiquitous. This constant state of heightened alertness is a known sleep disruptor. Over time, without adequate interventions, it can solidify into a persistent sleep disorder.
For some, the very fear of not sleeping becomes the cause of their insomnia, known as somniphobia. The anxiety of clock-watching, calculating hours left for sleep, and worrying about the implications of another sleepless night can, paradoxically, prevent sleep itself.
Emotions, both positive and negative, can influence sleep. Extreme happiness, excitement, sadness, or anger can all interfere with one’s ability to wind down. Learning to regulate these intense emotional experiences, especially closer to bedtime, becomes vital for sound sleep. (14)
