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Psychophysiologic Insomnia

Description

Psychophysiologic insomnia is a disorder that is associated with both a high level of physical tension and learned sleep preventing associations. These associations take on internal and external forms. The most typical internal association sufferers experience is an intense preoccupation with being unable to sleep. This oftentimes can lead to a vicious cycle of trying to sleep, becoming upset at the inability to sleep and consequently being unable to sleep. Sufferers tend to also make external associations with actions that have typically been associated with sleeplessness. These associations can range from lying in bed, brushing teeth or turning off bedroom lights.
Psycholphysiologic insomnia first occurs among adults in their 20s and 30s. It is one and a half times more prevalent in women than in men, and affects approximately 2% to 5% of the population.

Diagnosis

This form of insomnia is diagnosed by a general complaint of insomnia associated with an intense effort in trying to sleep. Sufferers also have agitated responses to items and activities associated with sleep. Patients can also demonstrate intense muscular tension as well as general irritability.

Treatment

This insomnia is treated through general sleep hygiene which includes daily exercise, avoidance of alcohol and caffeine as well as establishing regular times to sleep and wake-up. Patients are encouraged to go to bed only when tired and avoid extraneous activities while in bed as they may result in healthy associations.

Source: Adapted from International Classification of Sleep Disorders Diagnostic & Coding Manual, American Academy of Sleep Medicine.