How Sleep Problems Contribute to Suicide

Recorded: Winter, 2022 2 CEs

A wide variety of sleep disorders contribute to suicide and self-harm. Those disorders include not only nightmares and insomnia, but also obstructive sleep apnea and narcolepsy. The relationship persists for people from adolescents to elders and impacts both men and women–although there are gender differences in the relationship. Suicide rates are higher at night than during the day per wakeful person. Sleep health assessments and appropriate sleep disorder interventions may be an effective way to reduce suicide risk and self-harm.

Learning Objectives:

• Learn the sleep disorders which contribute to suicide and self-harm. • Understand the differences in people of various ages and genders. • Use sleep health questionnaires and inventories to assess sleep disorders. • Use sleep health interventions to reduce suicide risk and self-harm behaviors.

EPDC CE Hours: 2

Presenter: Dr. Catherine Darley

***Dr. Catherine Darley*** is a leader in integrative sleep medicine. She founded The Institute of Naturopathic Sleep Medicine, Inc in 2003, and since then has helped people of all ages sleep well using behavioral and naturopathic approaches for sleep disorders. Her expertise lies in profoundly effective lifestyle and behavioral change based on the deep understanding of principles of sleep and circadian physiology. Behaving in accordance with these principles allows patients all the benefits of a good night’s sleep, without the negative side effects of pharmaceuticals. She is an expert and dynamic speaker, teaching a wide range of groups through engagement, storytelling, and with a clear explanation of the mechanisms of disease and treatment protocols. Dr. Darley is published in professional journals, has been quoted in several popular magazines, and appeared on TV to share her sleep knowledge.