At Spire Sussex Hospital in Hastings, East Sussex we are delighted to announce The Insomnia Clinic run by Dr Simon Merritt, Respiratory and Sleep Medicine Consultant and Mr Steve Clifford, Cognitive Behavioural therapist, both highly experienced and qualified in treating patients.
Are you struggling to sleep? Now we can help with the new Insomnia Clinic at Spire Sussex Hospital
What is Insomnia?
Insomnia is a difficulty with the initiation, maintenance, length, or quality of sleep which results in the impairment of daytime functioning, despite the adequate opportunity and circumstances for sleep. Some people might be happy with 4 hours sleep and do not have Insomnia, where as another person may feel they need more, and provided this impacts on their day to day functioning and has been present for more than 2 months, they have Insomnia.
How common is Insomnia?
At least 10% of the UK population have chronic insomnia, defined as lasting for more than one month, whilst lesser, shorter lasting versions, can affect up to 50% of the population. It is more common in women, older adults and patients with chronic medical and psychiatric disorders.
What are the difference types of insomnia?
Insomnia can be divided into two types, primary and secondary insomnia. The cause of primary insomnia is unknown but thought to be due to hyperarousal. Insomnia caused by other causes, such as a medical condition, drug or substance, or to a psychiatric disorder, is termed secondary.
How can we help?
Dr Simon Merrit and Mr Steve Clifford offer a treatment course called ‘Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia’ (CBT I). The treatment course involves a stand alone assessment with Dr Merritt at the Spire Sussex Hospital, during which a full sleep history will be taken and treatment options explained. This will be followed by a package of six Cognitive Behavioural Therapy sessions, tailored to suit your individual needs at weekly intervals with Mr Steve Clifford, Cognitive Behavioural therapist. Finally there will be a further appointment with Dr Simon Merritt to consolidate and finalise the course of treatment. Further one off reinforcement sessions are also available but shouldn’t be necessary.
As an evidence based approach, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy can help you to overcome insomnia and enjoy a good quality of life once again.
For more information on The Insomnia Clinic, how CBT works and tips for getting a good night sleep please visit www.insomnia-treatment.co.uk or contact Customer Services at Spire Sussex Hospital on 01424 757 455 or by filling out our online enquiry form.