Psychiatry

Sleep Disorders

Quality sleep is fundamental to mental and physical health. When sleep is disrupted, it can worsen psychiatric conditions, impair cognitive function, and reduce quality of life. Dr Nel assesses and treats a range of sleep disorders, with particular experience in insomnia, sleep disturbances related to anxiety and depression, circadian rhythm disorders, and medication-related sleep problems. Treatment focuses on addressing underlying causes and establishing sustainable, healthy sleep patterns.

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Psychiatry

What to Expect

  • A detailed sleep history including bedtime routines, sleep quality, daytime symptoms, and sleep environment
  • Assessment of mental health conditions that may be contributing to sleep difficulties
  • Review of medications and substances (including caffeine and alcohol) that may affect sleep
  • Sleep diary analysis and, if indicated, referral for a sleep study (polysomnography)
  • A personalised treatment plan combining sleep hygiene, behavioural strategies, and medication if necessary
Sleep Disorders
Areas Covered

Conditions We Treat

Chronic insomnia — difficulty falling or staying asleep
Insomnia secondary to anxiety, depression, or PTSD
Circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorders
Medication-induced sleep disturbances
Restless legs syndrome
Nightmares and sleep-related parasomnias
Our Process

How It Works

1

Sleep Assessment

Complete a sleep diary for one to two weeks before your appointment. Dr Nel conducts a thorough sleep and mental health history.

2

Diagnosis & Contributing Factors

The type of sleep disorder is identified and underlying causes — psychiatric, medical, behavioural, or environmental — are determined.

3

Treatment Implementation

A treatment plan is developed including sleep hygiene education, cognitive behavioural strategies, and medication management where appropriate.

4

Follow-Up & Optimisation

Progress is reviewed at follow-up, sleep medication is tapered if applicable, and long-term sleep health strategies are reinforced.

Benefits

Why Choose This Service

Thorough assessment of the psychiatric and medical factors underlying poor sleep
Evidence-based cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) principles integrated into treatment
Careful, responsible use of sleep medication to avoid dependence
Addressing the root cause rather than masking symptoms with sleeping tablets
Improved sleep quality leading to better mental health, energy, and daytime functioning
FAQ

Common Questions About Sleep Disorders

Most sleeping medications are intended for short-term use only. Long-term use of certain sleep medications can lead to tolerance and dependence. Our approach prioritises behavioural strategies and addresses underlying causes, using medication as a short-term aid while sustainable sleep habits are established.
Yes, very commonly. Insomnia is a frequent symptom of both anxiety and depression, and poor sleep can also worsen these conditions, creating a vicious cycle. Treating the underlying psychiatric condition often significantly improves sleep.
Sleep hygiene refers to habits and environmental factors that promote good sleep quality. This includes maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, avoiding screens before bed, limiting caffeine and alcohol, keeping the bedroom cool and dark, and establishing a relaxing bedtime routine.
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