The center accommodates all types of sleep disorders, Walsleven said. The staff at the SDC interview patients to try to determine the type of sleep problem they suffer from. Depending on the severity of the problem, the patient will be given behavior techniques to try to improve sleeping habits, or be referred to his or her primary care physician for further evaluation. Walsleven recommends that insomniacs avoid alcohol, caffeine and cigarettes, and that they use their beds for sleep only. Those who suffer from sleep disorders should exercise regularly, establish a routine sleep schedule, avoid daytime naps and take warm baths before going to bed, according to The New York Times.
Some doctors prescribe medication and relaxation therapy for more serious, chronic insomniacs.
While Walsleven says few NYU undergraduates seek help sleeping, this does not mean that insomnia does not exist within the NYU community. Hours roll by and I will eventually fall asleep, only to wake up 20 minutes later. Sometimes I don't even get any sleep at all. Many NYU students say they sleep six to eight hours per night, but others admit to less than five or six. Some cite late-night studying and early morning classes as obstacles to a good night's sleep.