What are sleep disorders?

Sleep disorders are medical conditions that affect the quality of sleep by interfering with normal sleep patterns. Symptoms can include trouble falling or staying asleep, sleeping at unusual times of day, or sleeping for longer or shorter than usual. Sleep is important for restoring physical and mental health, especially for survivors. Some sleep disorders include nightmares, sleep terrors, insomnia.

Where can I go to get help and learn more?

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) has resources to help you discuss sleep with a healthcare professional, including what questions to ask. You can also learn more about the symptoms of insomnia and nightmares from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and more about night terrors in adults from Healthline.

To speak with someone who is trained to help, call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673) or chat online at online.rainn.org.

Please note that content on this site does not constitute medical advice and RAINN is not a medical expert. If after reading this information you have further questions, please contact a local healthcare professional or hospital.