Anxiety and insomnia are two common issues that many people struggle with. They can often go hand in hand, feeding off each other and making each other worse. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reports that around 50% of individuals with sleep problems also have a mental health condition, such as anxiety. This begs the question, do anxiety and insomnia make each other worse?
HOW DO WE DEFINE INSOMNIA?
Insomnia, as defined by the International Classification of Sleep Disorders (ICSD-3), is characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing poor sleep quality. This can have a significant impact on various aspects of a person’s life, affecting their performance at work or school and interfering with their overall well-being. Anxiety, on the other hand, is an emotion that can manifest as tension, worry, and physical symptoms such as increased heart rate or trembling, as noted by the American Psychological Association (APA).
THE ANXIETY INSOMNIA CONNECTION
The link between anxiety and insomnia is clear. Individuals with anxiety may struggle to fall asleep due to heightened excitement or alertness. This state of heightened arousal can make it difficult to relax and drift off to sleep. Conversely, chronic sleep deprivation has been linked to mental distress, anxiety, and even increased alcohol consumption. It becomes a vicious cycle, with anxiety causing insomnia and insomnia exacerbating anxiety.
MEDICATION DOESN’T SOLVE ANYTHING
While medication may provide some relief for anxiety-induced insomnia, it often does not address the underlying anxiety that is contributing to the sleep issues. The residual effects of sleep medications, such as grogginess or difficulty concentrating, can also be problematic. Therefore, it is important to explore alternative methods for addressing both anxiety and insomnia that get to the root of the problem.
BALANCE THE ANS WITH CHIROPRACTIC AND POLYVAGAL
One promising approach is the combination of corrective chiropractic care and polyvagal theory. Corrective chiropractic focuses on removing irritation to the Vagus Nerve and balancing the Autonomic Nervous System. The Vagus Nerve plays a crucial role in regulating the body’s stress response, and when it is shut down by the Sympathetic fight or flight system, it can contribute to anxiety and poor sleep quality.
SYMPATHETIC DOMINANCE LEADS TO ANXIETY
High levels of chronic stress can lead to increased sympathetic activity and low Vagal Nerve tone, creating a recipe for anxiety. When anxiety is coupled with sympathetic dominance, it can result in insomnia and poor sleep quality. This creates a self-perpetuating cycle where anxiety leads to insomnia, which in turn worsens anxiety.
THE PERFECT COMBINATION
By combining corrective chiropractic to address Vagus Nerve function and balance the Autonomic Nervous System with polyvagal practices, individuals can work towards relieving anxiety and creating a state conducive to higher quality sleep. Polyvagal theory emphasizes the importance of activating the Vagal Nerve to promote feelings of safety and relaxation, ultimately helping to reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality.
If you are struggling with anxiety and insomnia, consider exploring the powerful combination of corrective chiropractic and polyvagal theory. By addressing the root causes of these issues and promoting relaxation and balance within the body, you may find relief from anxiety and improved sleep quality. Don’t let anxiety and insomnia continue to feed off each other – take steps to break the cycle and prioritize your mental and physical well-being.
About Dr. Berkowitz
Bringing more than 3 decades of practice experience, Dr. Bill Berkowitz focuses on balancing and corrective care, applying his expertise to provide patients with predictable, repeatable and measurable results.
Dr. Bill consistently strives to enhance the well-being of his patients by addressing the root imbalances of their problems and promoting optimal balance, alignment, and function of the spine and nervous system.
Bill’s wealth of knowledge and experience has allowed him to develop a nuanced understanding of the human body and its intricate connections. With each adjustment, he supports the body in returning to a state of balance that goes beyond mere symptom relief, focusing instead on long-term correction for his patients’ well-being.
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