Mental health and psychiatric disorders

Insomnia

Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that makes it hard to fall asleep, stay asleep, or get enough restful sleep. It can be short-term (acute...

About this profile

Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that makes it hard to fall asleep, stay asleep, or get enough restful sleep. It can be short-term (acute) or long-lasting (chronic). Poor sleep can affect mood, concentration, memory, and physical health.

Watch and listen

Insomnia - causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment & pathology
What it feels like living with insomnia | Explained by a sleep expert

Common challenges

  • Fatigue and low energy during the day
  • Difficulty concentrating or remembering information
  • Reduced ability to handle stress
  • Mood changes, including irritability or anxiety
  • Slower reaction times and reduced work performance
  • Increased risk of absenteeism or presenteeism

How to help

  • Encourage the development of a healthy sleep routine
  • Refer to mental health professionals for cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT-I) or treatment
  • Support stress and anxiety management strategies
  • Recommend jobs with stable routines and lower stress
  • Educate employers about the impact of sleep disorders

Notes

Insomnia can have a wide impact on daily life, even if it seems mild at first. Helping participants manage sleep and reduce stress can make a big difference to their employment success.

This condition is often invisible, read more about invisible disabilities here:

Remember every client is unique, do not assume the challenges here are a problem for your client based on their diagnosis. Click here to explore discovery questions you can use during your coaching sessions to ensure you are providing tailored support.

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