CBS 2’s "Sleep Wreckers" are a few of the common-sense insomnia culprits

On day 2 of WCBS New York City’s “Sleep Week,” health reporter introduced viewers to their so-called “Sleep Wreckers.”

Most elements in their list should be familiar for regular blog readers.

- Pets in bed
-Alcohol before bedtime
-Supplements like B6, B12 or Ginseng in the evening
-Sleep disorders like sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome
-Pain or discomfort while sleeping
-Stress

The report only scratches the surface for behaviors that contribute to sleeplessness. Some are more obvious than others.

-Caffeine after lunch
-Eating before bed
-Exposure to bright light before bedtime
-Heavy evening exercise
-Nicotine before bedtime
-Lengthy naps
-Irregular sleeping patterns
-Using your bed for activities other than sleep
-Uncomfortable sleeping environment

The author of the WCBS article recommends prescription sleep drugs for treating short-term insomnia. The AASM recognizes medications such as Ambien or Lunesta as an effective temporary fix. However, we first suggest improving sleep hygiene and eliminating these “Sleep Wreckers.” Some people may need the assistance of a sleep professional. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is the treatment of choice for insomnia. Patients work with behavioral sleep experts to change the thoughts and actions that contributed to difficulty sleeping.

Learn more about Cognitive Behavioral Therapy on Sleepeducation.com.