Relief from Insomnia: Getting the Sleep of Your Dreams

Jane Heath teaches psychology at Ryerson Polytechnical University in
Toronto.

This practical guide to the treatment of insomnia is divided into three
sections. The first gives an overview of the nature of sleep (why we
sleep, how much sleep is necessary, how sleep patterns change with age)
and discusses the causes, symptoms, and consequences of insomnia. The
second section outlines a comprehensive approach to sleep management,
addressing such topics as the beliefs and attitudes that promote
insomnia, the role of mental and physical relaxation, the basics of
sleep hygiene, and how to reset one’s body clock. The third section
gives strategies for dealing with jet lag, shift work, sleep problems in
children, and age-related insomnia, in addition to providing helpful
information on a number of common sleep disorders other than insomnia.

Grounded in the latest psychological research, Relief from Insomnia is
a clear, well-organized discussion of a complex topic. The author takes
a holistic approach, emphasizing the role of total self-care (mental,
physical, environmental) in the control of insomnia. His
sleep-management program demands a high level of motivation and
commitment. In Morin’s words, “If you can adopt an inquisitive,
scientific attitude and are willing to apply diligence and effort, this
program is for you.” One might say the same for this book.