Problems sleeping? Other options aside drugs are available.

The Washington Post just published a recent article about alternative options for sleeping problems, as well as some useful descriptions on some of the causes of sleep problems. Before you turn to drugs to aid in sleep, try these no nonsense options: 

Lifestyle changes. Behavior modification - such as changing sleep habits by getting up at the same time every day and avoiding naps - produced significant improvements for older adults with chronic insomnia, according to a 2011 study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy. Seeing a therapist who specializes in insomnia might help 70 to 80 percent of people with chronic insomnia, often providing a "cure." (Pills treat the symptoms.) To find a sleep center where CBT is offered, call the American Academy of Sleep Medicine at 630-737-9700 or go to www.sleepcenters.org. Ask your insurer about coverage.

Exercise. A study of more than 3,000 adults, published in December in the journal Mental Health and Physical Activity, found that 150 minutes a week of moderate exercise, such as brisk walking, or 75 minutes a week of vigorous activity, such as running, improved sleep quality by as much as 65 percent. 

Read the full article here: 

http://www.lef.org/news/LefDailyNews.htm?NewsID=13358&Section=AGING