Everyone has the odd bad night. The problem is when bad nights become the norm. You lie awake wired, or wake at 3am and cannot get back. The days that follow are foggy and short-tempered. Poor sleep and low mood feed each other, which is why getting on top of sleep can lift so much else.
Once sleep becomes a struggle, we often try to force it. We go to bed earlier, watch the clock, and worry about not sleeping. Ironically, that effort keeps the brain alert. Breaking that cycle is the heart of effective treatment.
For long-term insomnia, the recommended first-line treatment is not a tablet. It is a structured approach called CBT for insomnia. A psychologist helps you reset your sleep patterns, quiet the racing mind, and rebuild trust that you can sleep. The effects tend to last, unlike sleeping pills.
It is worth ruling out medical causes with your GP first. They can also write a Mental Health Treatment Plan for rebated sessions. If stress or anxiety is keeping you up, our guide to stress and anxiety may help too.
Yes. CBT for insomnia is the recommended first-line treatment for ongoing insomnia, and a psychologist delivers it.
For long-term insomnia, the effects tend to last longer than medication, without the downsides of ongoing pills.
Many people see real improvement within a handful of sessions.
Yes. Sleep treatment works well over video.
Important: This is general information, not personal medical advice. See your GP to rule out medical causes, and a registered psychologist for treatment. In a crisis, call Lifeline 13 11 14 or 000.
© Updoc - All rights reserved
