Many people put extensive pressure on themselves to sleep a certain way, at a certain time, with or without certain people. But when we look at world history, our own personal history, and cultures across the world today, we see that there are very few firm “shoulds,” and we can rework patterns and habits that are not serving us.
While many celebrate the extended daylight hours, for those grappling with insomnia, even the briefest night can feel endless. Insomnia affects millions globally, manifesting as difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early without being able to return to rest. This condition not only impacts physical health but also mental well-being, leading to fatigue, mood disturbances, and decreased performance in daily activities.
Individuals with OCD are more likely to have sleep problems such as delayed circadian rhythms (DSPD) and insomnia symptoms. Understanding the interplay between OCD and DSPD (and sometimes Insomnia) is essential for both providers and clients, particularly when engaging in evidence-based treatments like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the gold standard for OCD treatment.
Despite his best intentions to get a good night's rest, "Charlie" frequently ends up sacrificing sleep, convinced that one more episode on his favorite streaming service or another scroll through social media won't hurt. The fatigue begins to creep in, manifesting as irritability, difficulty concentrating, and an overwhelming sense of heaviness during the day. Yet, Charlie brushes off these symptoms, attributing them to the hustle of life and the need to balance work and family. Little does he know that this cycle of sleep deprivation could lead to more serious health issues over time.