At the Cognitive Behavior Therapy Center of Silicon Valley, we offer cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) for teenagers with Insomnia and other sleep problems. Our approach with teenagers is practical, goal-oriented, compassionate, and scientifically-based while focusing on your teen’s individual needs. With our central location in Saratoga just a 1/2 mile (2 minute drive) from Hwy 85, we serve the Silicon Valley communities of San Jose, Saratoga, Los Gatos, Monte Sereno, Cupertino, Campbell, Mountain View, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale and Los Altos. If you think your teenager may be experiencing sleep problems, you can learn more about Insomnia and our treatment approach below.
What is Insomnia in Teens?
Insomnia involves difficulty falling or staying asleep for at least one month. Teens with insomnia may report that they don’t feel rested or restored after sleeping. Primary Insomnia refers to a sleep disturbance that is not caused by a known medical or mental health problem, while secondary insomnia is due to a medical or mental health condition.
Symptoms of Insomnia in Teenagers
- Difficulty falling asleep, even when tired.
- Waking up throughout the night and having difficulty falling asleep.
- Not feeling rested or restored after sleeping.
- Tiredness and fatigue throughout the day.
- Problems with daily functioning (school, household responsibilities) due to sleep problems.
Cognitive Behavioral Model of Insomnia for Adolescents
The most common causes of secondary insomnia are stress, worry, anxiety and depression. Often, insomnia is maintained by mistaken beliefs about sleep (e.g. “I must get 8 hours of sleep every night.” Or “I should be able to fall asleep quickly”) and behaviors that prevent restful sleep (e.g. sleeping with the TV on, staying in bed when unable to sleep).
Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Teens with Insomnia
Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia focused on helping your teen recognize and change beliefs that affect his ability to sleep and on developing good sleep habits and avoiding behaviors that keep your teen from sleeping well. CBT for Insomnia often includes sleep education, where your teen will learn the basics of sleep and the factors that contribute to healthy sleep patterns. Your teen may also be asked to keep a sleep diary to help us understand their sleep patterns and develop the best treatment approach. Your teen will also learn cognitive techniques aimed at identifying and responding more effectively to negative thoughts and worries that keep them awake and eliminate false beliefs about sleep, as well as developing relaxation and mindfulness skills. Behavioral strategies such as sleep restriction, stimulus control, and improving sleep hygiene may also be used.
Common Goals of Cognitive Behavior Therapy with Teenagers
- Develop healthy sleep routine
- Improve quality of sleep
- Modify mistaken beliefs about sleep
- Improve school and home functioning
Getting Help for Your Teen with Insomnia/Sleep Problems
If you believe that your teen may be struggling with insomnia, the first step is to share your concerns. Help your teen understand that some difficulty with sleep is normal, but there is help available. You may want to ask your teen if they are feeling anxious, stress or depressed, as these common causes of sleep difficulties. Be supportive, encouraging, and remind your teen of what he or she does well. After talking with your teen, it may be time to get some professional help.
The Cognitive Behavior Therapy Center of Silicon Valley specializes in therapy and counseling for teenagers with insomnia and sleep problems. With our central location in Saratoga just a 1/2 mile (2 minute drive) from Hwy 85, we serve the Silicon Valley communities of San Jose, Saratoga, Los Gatos, Monte Sereno, Cupertino, Campbell, Mountain View, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale and Los Altos. Contact us at (408) 384-8404 for more information on how we can help your teen improve their sleep.