Sleep is not a luxury — it is a biological necessity. During Sleep Awareness Week (8th–14th March), we are reminded of the vital role sleep plays in mental health, emotional regulation, memory, and physical wellbeing.
At Bloomfield Health, we frequently see how disrupted sleep affects mood, concentration, work performance, and relationships. Equally, we see how restoring sleep can significantly improve overall mental health.
This article explores:
What Is Insomnia?
Insomnia is defined as persistent difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking too early, despite adequate opportunity for sleep, and accompanied by daytime impairment.
According to NICE guidance (NG226, 2022) and the Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCPsych), insomnia may be:
Importantly, insomnia is often both a symptom and a maintaining factor in mental health conditions.
The Relationship Between Sleep and Mental Health
Sleep and mental health are closely interconnected.
Research shows:
Treating sleep problems can sometimes reduce the severity of depression and anxiety symptoms (RCPsych, 2021).
At Bloomfield Health, sleep assessment forms part of comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, whether for mood disorders, ADHD, trauma-related conditions, or occupational assessments.
Different Causes of Insomnia
Insomnia is rarely “just” about sleep. Common causes include:
1. Stress and Hyperarousal
Work pressures, legal proceedings, health concerns, or family stress can activate the body’s stress response, making sleep biologically difficult.
2. Depression
Depression may cause:
3. Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety often presents with:
4. Neurodevelopmental Conditions
People with ADHD or autism spectrum conditions often have delayed sleep phase patterns or difficulty winding down.
5. Medical Causes
6. Circadian Rhythm Disruption and Jet Lag
Travelling across time zones disrupts the body’s internal clock (circadian rhythm). Symptoms may include:
Shift work can cause similar disruption.
A careful assessment helps determine the root cause — and the right treatment.
First-Line Treatment: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I)
NICE recommends Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) as the first-line treatment for chronic insomnia.
CBT-I is structured and evidence-based. It typically includes:
CBT-I has been shown in multiple studies to be as effective as medication in the short term and more effective in the long term.
At Bloomfield Health, we may recommend CBT-I directly or refer to trusted therapists depending on individual needs.
Treating the Underlying Cause: CBT for Depression and Anxiety
When insomnia is secondary to another condition, treating the underlying issue is essential.
For example:
Addressing both sleep and mental health simultaneously often produces the best outcomes.
Medication for Sleep: When Is It Appropriate?
Medication is sometimes helpful, particularly in:
However, NICE advises caution with long-term hypnotic use due to risks of tolerance and dependence.
Commonly Used Medications
These are usually prescribed short-term and under close supervision.
Newer Treatments: Daridorexant
A newer medication option is daridorexant, a dual orexin receptor antagonist.
Unlike traditional sleeping tablets that broadly sedate the brain, daridorexant works by blocking orexin — a neurotransmitter involved in wakefulness. This means it:
As with all medications, suitability depends on individual health factors and should be discussed with a specialist psychiatrist.
At Bloomfield Health, we carefully assess risks, benefits, and alternative treatments before prescribing.
Jet Lag and Circadian Rhythm Issues
For jet lag:
For frequent travellers or executives working internationally, a personalised sleep strategy can improve performance and wellbeing.
Digital Tools: Calming Anxiety Between Appointments
Digital interventions can complement therapy.
📱 Uvia
Uvia is a digital app designed to support sleep and wellbeing through structured guidance and behavioural techniques.
Apps can be helpful adjuncts, though they do not replace individualised psychiatric assessment where needed.
Further Reading on Insomnia
Bloomfield Health provides patient-friendly information on insomnia and treatments via Choice and Medication:
🔗 https://www.choiceandmedication.org/bloomfieldhealth/condition/insomnia/
When to Seek Professional Help
Consider a psychiatric or sleep assessment if:
Bloomfield Health’s Approach
At Bloomfield Health, we provide:
Our approach is evidence-based, personalised, and aligned with NICE and GMC guidance.
Final Thoughts
Sleep is foundational to mental health. While occasional disturbed nights are normal, persistent insomnia deserves thoughtful assessment and evidence-based treatment.
During Sleep Awareness Week, we encourage patients, families, and professionals to view sleep not as an afterthought, but as a core component of psychological wellbeing.
If you would like to learn more about our private psychiatry services or arrange an assessment, please contact Bloomfield Health or explore our services online.
We are registered by the Care Quality Commission (CQC),
the independent regulator of health and social care in England.
