Many individuals across the globe struggle with some form of sleep disorder, which might include anything from insomnia, narcolepsy, restless leg syndrome, sleep apnea, REM sleep behavior disorder, circadian rhythm sleep disorders and more.
As important and crucial as sleep is for health and wellness, countless people have difficulty getting the adequate sleep they need.
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke have estimated that approximately 40 million people in the United States suffer from chronic long-term sleep disorders each year, while an additional 20 million people experience occasional sleep problems [1].
Advertisement
Appropriately Addressing and Treating Sleep Disorders
Because of the variety of supplements and products that are currently available over the counter that are targeted for sleep issues or disorders, individuals who are struggling with getting adequate sleep may attempt to solve the problem on their own, or rather treat the symptoms being experienced.
However if the root of the problem or sleep disorder is not being properly addressed with professional help and resources, this can lead to further complications.
How to Approach Herbal and Natural Sleep Aides
Many products are advertised as “natural” cures for sleep disorders and can be purchased over-the-counter, but this does not make them safe for use or even appropriate for a particular sleep disorder, especially as these types of supplements are not typically regulated.
While prescription medication is not necessarily the answer for everyone who is experiencing a sleep disorder, it is important to enlist the help of a professional to determine the most effective type of treatment plan for the sleep disorder experienced.
If you or your loved one is struggling with a sleep disorder, be sure to talk with your doctor about the signs and symptoms that you may be experiencing.
Based on your symptoms, your doctor may recommend that you try something over the counter or refer you to a sleep disorder specialist for more comprehensive care.
Taking your treatment into your own hands is not usually an effective route for recovery, so reach out for the necessary help you need. If you are interested in taking a certain supplement, herb, or natural sleep aide, be sure to research your options and have a discussion with your doctor about how these might fit into your plan of care.
References:
[1]: “Sleep Disorders Overview”, Healthy Communities, http://www.healthcommunities.com/sleep-disorders/overview-of-sleep-disorders.shtml
About the Author: Crystal is a Masters-level Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with a specialty focus in eating disorders, maternal/child health and wellness, and intuitive eating. Combining clinical experience with a love of social media and writing, Crystal serves as the Special Projects Coordinator for Eating Disorder Hope/Addiction Hope, where her passion to help others find recovery and healing is integrated into each part of her work.
As a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, Crystal has dedicated her career to helping others establish a healthy relationship with food and body through her work with EDH/AH and nutrition private practice.
The opinions and views of our guest contributors are shared to provide a broad perspective of addictions. These are not necessarily the views of Addiction Hope, but an effort to offer discussion of various issues by different concerned individuals.
We at Addiction Hope understand that addictions result from a combination of environmental and genetic factors. If you or a loved one are suffering from an addiction, please know that there is hope for you, and seek immediate professional help.
Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on March 16, 2016
Published on AddictionHope.com