Sleep Disturbances: Causes and Concerns for Students - Psychiatry

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Hello! It sounds like you're experiencing a range of sleep disturbances that are affecting your overall well-being, especially as you prepare for your national exams. Let's break down the potential causes and concerns related to your situation.

Firstly, the symptoms you describe—such as calling out in your sleep, rolling around in bed, and waking up feeling unrefreshed—could be indicative of a condition known as parasomnia. Parasomnia encompasses a variety of abnormal behaviors during sleep, including sleep talking, sleepwalking, and night terrors. These episodes can occur during different stages of sleep, particularly during non-REM sleep, and often the individual is unaware of these actions upon waking. Stress, anxiety, and irregular sleep patterns can exacerbate these disturbances, which is particularly relevant given your current academic pressures.

Your mention of hyperthyroidism (甲狀腺亢進) is also significant. Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in regulating metabolism and can influence sleep patterns. Hyperthyroidism can lead to symptoms such as anxiety, restlessness, and insomnia, which may contribute to your sleep issues. Even if your thyroid levels are currently stable, the history of thyroid dysfunction could still have lingering effects on your sleep quality. It's essential to monitor your thyroid function regularly, as fluctuations can occur.

The stress of preparing for exams can also be a significant factor in your sleep disturbances. Many students experience heightened anxiety during exam periods, which can lead to racing thoughts, difficulty falling asleep, and frequent awakenings throughout the night. This anxiety can create a vicious cycle: the more you worry about not sleeping well, the more difficult it becomes to achieve restful sleep.

To address your sleep issues, consider implementing some sleep hygiene practices:
1. Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body's internal clock.

2. Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine: Engage in calming activities before bed, such as reading, meditating, or taking a warm bath. Avoid screens (phones, computers, TVs) at least an hour before bedtime, as the blue light emitted can interfere with melatonin production.

3. Optimize Your Sleep Environment: Ensure your bedroom is conducive to sleep—dark, quiet, and cool. Consider using earplugs or a white noise machine if noise is an issue.

4. Limit Stimulants: Reduce caffeine and nicotine intake, especially in the afternoon and evening. These substances can interfere with your ability to fall asleep.

5. Manage Stress and Anxiety: Techniques such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga can help reduce anxiety levels and promote relaxation.

6. Seek Professional Help: If your sleep disturbances persist or worsen, it may be beneficial to consult a healthcare professional. They can assess your symptoms more thoroughly and provide tailored recommendations, which may include cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) or other interventions.

In summary, your sleep disturbances could be linked to a combination of factors, including your history of hyperthyroidism, current stress levels, and potential parasomnia. By implementing good sleep hygiene practices and seeking professional guidance if necessary, you can work towards improving your sleep quality and overall well-being. Best of luck with your studies and exams!