Sleep Disorders

Diagnosis and Treatment

Sleep is not a pause but a complex, active process. During sleep, the brain consolidates learning, regulates metabolic processes, and regenerates.

Disturbed sleep affects not only daytime well-being but also concentration, mood, and physical health.

Sleep Is Treatable

Even chronic sleep disorders can be effectively treated. A structured diagnosis is essential.

Sleep and Mental Health

Depression and anxiety disorders frequently cause difficulty falling or staying asleep
Chronic sleep deprivation increases the risk for depression and anxiety
With ADHD, difficulty falling asleep and delayed sleep phases are common

Treating the sleep disorder can significantly improve psychiatric symptoms – and vice versa.

Insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep, non-restorative sleep)

Hypersomnia (excessive daytime sleepiness)

Sleep-related breathing disorders (e.g., sleep apnea)

Circadian rhythm disorders (shifted sleep-wake cycle)

Parasomnias (e.g., sleepwalking, nightmares)

Our diagnostic process includes:

Sleep habits, sleep environment, daily routine, substance use

Ambulatory screening at our practice planned starting in 2026

Ruling out physical causes (e.g., thyroid disorders, iron deficiency)

If sleep apnea or other disorders are suspected (e.g., polysomnography)

Why Thorough Diagnosis Matters

Sleep disorders often have multiple causes. A solid diagnosis prevents ineffective or unnecessary treatments.

Treatment depends on the type and cause of the sleep disorder:

Most effective treatment for chronic insomnia. Includes sleep restriction, stimulus control, and cognitive techniques.

Recommendations such as Somnio or HelloBetter Sleep. Costs may be covered by health insurance.

Targeted treatment of depression, anxiety disorder, or ADHD when these cause the sleep disorder.

Sleep medications only short-term. Long-term improvement relies on CBT-I and treating underlying causes.

Sleep Medications Are Rarely a Long-Term Solution

For lasting improvement in sleep, behavioral approaches and treatment of underlying causes are essential.

Appointments are usually available within a few days. Diagnosis and treatment are available in English.

Costs: Private insurance, Beihilfe, self-pay (GOÄ).