Why People With Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Have Sleep Problems?

People suffer from sleep problems frequently, especially in people who have experienced traumatic events, natural disasters or violence.

People exposed to physical or psychological traumatic events develop a condition known as post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Sleep is one of the many problems of PTSD. Sleep problems, such as frequent waking, difficulty in falling asleep, distressing dreams and nightmares are common in people with PTSD.

Severe trauma physically and psychologically can cause changes in basic biological functioning of a person. As a result of trauma, the person may look out for protection from danger. Therefore, it will become difficult to have a restful sleep when you feel the need to be always alert.

Sleep problems associated with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD):

Difficulty falling asleep:

As a result of trauma, biological changes occur, making it difficult for you to fall asleep. Watchfulness or hyper-arousal will be always present making it hard to sleep. You will always be awake to protect yourself from danger.

Some medical conditions associated with post traumatic stress disorder can make it difficult for you to sleep. The conditions can be pelvic problems, chronic pain, stomach and digestive problems. Using drugs and alcohol are also associated with difficulty in sleeping.

Difficulty staying asleep:

Nightmares are common in people with PTSD [Nightmares and PSTD]. Nightmares are mostly related to traumatic events. A person with PTSD may try to express his/her emotions of traumatic events in dreams which are usually related to fear and terror.

Due to bad dreams, the person’s arms and legs move and can cause awakening. Anxiety or panic attacks are common in PTSD and interrupt the sleep. The symptoms of the attacks can be faster heart beat, lightheadedness, sweating, fearful feeling and difficulty in breathing.

How can you solve the sleep problems due to PTSD?

Talk to your doctor and explain that you have sleep problems and PTSD. You should also explain about the physical problems that are contributing to sleep problems. For example, chronic pain related with trauma can cause difficulty in sleeping. [Ways to get Good Night Sleep]

Explain your emotional problems like depression or panic attacks that are making it hard to sleep. Many medications are available for sleep problems in PTSD. Depending on your sleep problem, your doctor can prescribe medications.

Your doctor may also recommend to a therapist who deals with physical and emotional problems. Psychologists and psychiatrists can help to prevent from various factors that are preventing you from sleeping well.

Lifestyle changes for a restful sleep:

• Limit the intake of caffeine and avoid alcohol. These substances can impair your ability to get a restful sleep.
• Maintain a regular sleep/wake schedule to set your body’s internal clock.
• Make your sleep area free from distractions. Room should be calm, quiet, and dark.
• Do not take naps during daytime, especially close to bedtime.