Conditions
SLEEP-WAKE DISORDERS
Adequate sleep is crucial for mental and physical wellbeing. Poor sleep causes difficulties with thinking, mood regulation and various other brain and bodily functions. The science of sleep is a fascinating and ever-evolving topic. There are several different types of sleep, each with unique characteristics and importance. Various mechanisms in the brain and body regulate sleep. Sleep disorders occur when these systems don’t function optimally. Persons suffering from any of these conditions experience difficulties with the quality, timing and amount of sleep.
Sleep-wake disorders are often accompanied by depression, anxiety and cognitive difficulties. Persistent sleep disturbances (either insufficient or excessive sleep) are risk factors for the development of other psychiatric conditions.
Sleep-wake disorders include insomnia disorder, narcolepsy, restless legs syndrome and breathing-related sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnoea.