B3b2 Sleep Disorder Clinics

Question 1

Holistic

Answer 1

To look at something as a whole, to deal with people of all ages and take a person’s lifestyle into account.

Question 2

How are psychological sleep disorders treated at a sleep disorder clinic?

Answer 2

Medication, Cognitive behavioural therapy, acupuncture, hypnotherapy.

Question 3

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)

Answer 3

A very popular therapy at the moment and studies suggest it is the most successful. The individual is encouraged to look at their thinking and perhaps change how they perceive things as well as change their behaviour. E.g view sleep in a more positive way to reduce stress and anxiety.

Question 4

Acupuncture

Answer 4

A therapy that uses needles and particular points in the body, it rests on ancient Chinese knowledge and understanding of the body. It can help the body clock readjust when the sleep-wake cycle is out of step.

Question 5

Hypnotherapy

Answer 5

A therapy that uses hypnosis to bring about a very relaxed state so issues can be explored. This therapy is used insomnia and Parasomnias.

Question 6

Treatments at a sleep disorder clinic

Answer 6

May involve lasers and surgery for physical problems. Blood testing can be used to diagnose, and see if there is a genetic link. Observation: the sufferer may spend a night at the clinic for observation and monitoring. An EEG could be used to study sleep cycles. The researcher may simply watch the person sleeping, and record REM or amount of restlessness. They could monitor sleeper’s temperature.