Sleep & Insomnia
A bad night here and there is normal. But when poor sleep becomes the pattern - lying awake for hours, waking at 3am, dreading bedtime - it starts to affect everything. Mood, energy, concentration, physical health, relationships.
Insomnia is a common reason people seek psychological support, and one of the most treatable.
When sleep becomes a problem
Most people experience occasional sleep disruption. Insomnia disorder is when sleep difficulties happen at least three nights a week, for at least three months, and are getting in the way of daily life. But you don't need to meet that bar to benefit from treatment - if poor sleep is affecting you, it's worth addressing.
What it can look like
Difficulty falling asleep despite feeling tired
Waking repeatedly through the night
Waking earlier than intended and being unable to get back to sleep
A busy or ruminative mind the moment you try to rest
Anxiety about sleep itself - clock-watching, worrying about the next day
Daytime fatigue, low mood and difficulty concentrating
Sleep difficulties often occur alongside anxiety and depression. Treating sleep can make a meaningful difference to both.
Psychological treatment for insomnia
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is the recommended first-line treatment for insomnia. It targets the patterns of thinking and behaviour that keep insomnia going - not just the symptoms.
Funding options
Medicare (Mental Health Care Plan from your GP)
Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA)
WorkCover / Motor Accident Scheme / SIRA
Private health insurance
Private (self-funded)
Sessions are available in person at Meadows Medical Centre, Mullumbimby, or via Telehealth.