Complex chronic illnesses can significantly increase stress levels and impair sleep in individuals. The complexity of these illnesses often leads to many physical and emotional symptoms, which can create a constant state of worry and anxiety. These conditions’ ongoing management and treatment can also be overwhelming, adding to the overall stress burden. Moreover, the symptoms associated with complex chronic illnesses can disrupt the sleep cycle, making it difficult for individuals to achieve restful and rejuvenating sleep. This combination of increased stress and inadequate sleep can further exacerbate the symptoms of the illness, creating a vicious cycle that can be challenging to break.
At Restoration Healthcare, we specialize in treating complex chronic illnesses using integrative and functional medicine. Our physicians treat every aspect of a person’s health, which includes the symptoms and etiology of the respective condition, the underlying causes, and the mental and cognitive impact of the disease. The latter typically involves managing stress and sleep.
Functional and Integrative Management of Stress and Sleep
Both functional and integrative medicine takes a personalized approach to understanding and treating chronic stress. It recognizes that each individual is unique, with different genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors contributing to their stress levels. By conducting comprehensive assessments and laboratory tests, doctors identify hormone imbalances, neurotransmitters, and other physiological markers that may contribute to chronic stress. Treatment plans may include dietary changes, supplementation, stress management techniques, and lifestyle modifications tailored to the individual’s needs.
Physicians at Restoration Healthcare may incorporate techniques such as acupuncture, massage therapy, meditation, and mindfulness practices to help manage stress. They also emphasize the importance of self-care and self-awareness, encouraging patients to participate in their healing process actively.
Whole-Person Treatments for Sleep Impairment
Whole person approaches to treating sleep problems examine a person’s unique health history, biochemistry, genetics, lifestyle, and environment; these practices aim to restore balance and promote optimal sleep health.
Our clinic uses a systems-oriented approach to identify and address the root causes of sleep problems. Practitioners in this field consider hormonal imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, chronic inflammation, and stress levels. By conducting comprehensive assessments and laboratory tests, doctors develop a personalized treatment plan that may include dietary modifications, targeted supplementation, stress management techniques, and lifestyle changes.
Regarding sleep problems, Restoration Healthcare doctors may incorporate techniques such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia. These complementary therapies can help improve sleep quality, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation.
