1. Make Behavioral Changes
Some sleep disorders are the result of stress, work or simple lifestyle choices. Doctors will sometimes prescribe lifestyle changes that encourage new sleep patterns or reduced stress. If you want to help someone overcome his sleep problems, become an active participant in treatment. Some sleep disorders can be overcome by encouraging fatigue. Go jogging or running with the patient to keep him motivated so he can effectively tire himself for sleeping later. Learn and teach meditation or relaxation techniques that can reduce stress levels.
2. Understand the Psychological Effects
It's important to remain patient with people who are suffering from sleep disorders. Sleep disorders have profound psychological effects. People who don't get enough sleep can become irritable or lethargic during the day, for example. Spouses and partners should expect moodiness and unpredictability during the initial treatment. Separation from family may also be necessary during initial testing and polysomnograms (sleep studies), so preparing yourself and children for your loved one's absence may be necessary.
3. Play Chauffeur for the Sleep Deprived
When a loved one is suffering from a sleep disorder, extreme fatigue may put her at risk for falling asleep behind the wheel of a car. Until the disorder is fully under control, you can help to protect her and others on the road by driving her to work and other locations. If you cannot help with rides, encourage her to carpool to work or use public transportation.
4. Monitor Sleep Difficulties and Treatment Progress
Sleep disorders can be problematic to deal with at first. This is especially true without someone there to monitor the sufferer and help him stay on track with treatment. You can help someone with a sleep disorder by being there for him at night, particularly when he is just starting to address his disorder. Monitor him as he tries to fall asleep, help him get comfortable if he needs to wear a mask (as in continuous positive airway pressure, or CPAP, treatment) and help him wake up in the morning when he's trying to readjust his circadian rhythm.
