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Talking to Your Doctor About Insomnia

Authors:
  • Amy Scholten, MPH
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Talking to Your Doctor About Insomnia

You have your own health history. Talk with your doctor about your risk factors and background with x. By talking openly and often with your doctor, you can take an active role in your care.

Tips for Getting Information

Here are some tips that will make it easier to talk to your doctor:

  • Bring someone with you. It helps to have another person hear what is said and think of questions to ask. They may also be able to give more details.
  • Write down your questions so do you do not forget them.
  • Write down the answers you get and make sure you understand what you are hearing.
  • Ask for help if you need it. Do not be afraid to ask questions or ask where you can find more information. You have a right to know.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

About Insomnia

  • What causes insomnia?
  • Am I taking any medicine that might trigger insomnia?
  • How can I prevent insomnia?
  • How do I know if I’m getting enough good sleep?

About Treatment Options

  • How do I best treat insomnia?
  • Where can I get help with psychological problems?
  • Who can help me learn to reduce stress?
  • What medicines might help me?
    • What are the benefits/side effects of these medicines?
    • Will these medicines interact with other medicines, products, or supplements I am taking?
  • Are there any complementary or alternative therapies that might help me?
  • Is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) a good treatment option for me?

About Lifestyle Changes

  • Should I exercise?
    • What kind of exercise is best?
    • How often should I exercise?
    • How do I get started with an exercise program?
    • Should I exercise in the morning or at night?
  • Are there other medicines that would be less likely to cause insomnia?
  • What can I do to make my bedroom better for sleep?
  • Are there activities I should not do that could disturb my sleep?
  • Should I stop drinking alcohol or caffeine?
  • How can I find help to quit smoking?
  • If I lost weight, would my sleep improve?
  • Is it okay for me to take a nap during the day?

About Outlook

  • How will I know that my treatment is effective?
  • Will I be able to cure my insomnia?
  • Will it come back? If so, what should I do?

References

  • How to talk to your doctor about your sleep. National Sleep Foundation website. Available at: https://sleepfoundation.org/sleep-news/how-talk-your-doctor-about-your-sleep. Accessed March 16, 2022.
  • Insomnia in adults. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/insomnia-in-adults. Accessed March 16, 2022.
  • Getting the most out of your doctor appointment. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: https://familydoctor.org/tips-for-talking-to-your-doctor. Accessed March 16, 2022.

Contributors

  • Nicole Meregian, PA
Last Updated:
2021-11-16

(C) Copyright 2023 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.