Prescription sleeping pills for insomnia
Prescription sleep medications may provide temporary relief, but can have serious side effects. It’s best to use medication only as a last resort, and then, only on a very limited, as-needed basis. Evidence shows that lifestyle and behavioral changes make the largest and most lasting difference when it comes to insomnia.
When to seek professional insomnia treatment
If you’ve tried the insomnia self-help strategies above and are still having trouble getting the sleep you need, a doctor or sleep disorder specialist may be able to help. Seek professional help for insomnia if:
Your insomnia doesn’t respond to self-help
Your insomnia is causing major problems at home, work, or school
You’re experiencing scary symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath
Your insomnia occurs almost every night and is getting worse
Bring a sleep diary with you. Your doctor may be able to diagnose an illness or sleep disorder that's causing your insomnia, or refer you to a sleep specialist or cognitive behavioral therapist