What is it?
Sleep problems can occur on their own or alongside anxiety, low mood or life changes. Your sleep pattern, daytime energy and habits that may affect sleep are discussed in detail.
You may be asked to keep a sleep diary for a few weeks. If there is snoring, pauses in breathing during sleep or restless legs, a referral to the relevant specialty may be made.
Behavioural approaches for insomnia, sleep routine advice and, where needed, medication are among the options. Next steps are agreed together, and settling into a routine takes a different amount of time for each person.
Who is it assessed for?
- People who struggle to fall asleep on many nights
- Those who wake often and cannot get back to sleep
- Shift workers with disrupted sleep
- People whose sleep problems come with anxiety or low mood
Step by step
- 1
Sleep history
Bed and wake times, daytime tiredness and habits are discussed.
- 2
Sleep diary
A diary over a few weeks may be requested.
- 3
Differential assessment
Referral to a sleep laboratory or other specialties is made if needed.
- 4
Plan and follow-up
Behavioural advice and other options are agreed together.
Questions
Will I need sleeping pills?
Not always. Behavioural approaches are often among the first options. Whether medication is needed is discussed after assessment.
Why is a sleep diary requested?
It shows your actual sleep pattern and makes changes easier to follow.
Is snoring assessed too?
Snoring and pauses in breathing are important to mention; a sleep laboratory referral may be made.
This page is for general information and does not replace a medical examination. Results and the suitable approach vary from person to person.