Sleep Disorder Treatment in Dartmouth, MA

Sleep and Mental Health

Sleep and mental health have a bidirectional relationship: mental health conditions cause sleep problems, and sleep problems worsen mental health. Insomnia is present in over 80% of people with depression, 70% of those with PTSD, and is a core feature of bipolar disorder. Treating the underlying psychiatric condition — and sometimes addressing sleep directly — often produces dramatic improvements in both.

Sleep Conditions We Treat

Insomnia Disorder — difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking too early at least 3 nights per week for at least 3 months, with significant daytime impairment. Most commonly co-occurs with anxiety and depression.

PTSD-related sleep disturbances — nightmares, hyperarousal, and inability to relax into sleep respond to specific targeted treatments.

Bipolar-related sleep changes — decreased sleep need during manic phases; hypersomnia during depressive episodes.

ADHD-related sleep difficulties — delayed sleep phase, racing thoughts at bedtime, difficulty "shutting off."

Anxiety-driven insomnia — hyperarousal and worry at bedtime preventing sleep onset.

Hypersomnia — excessive sleepiness despite adequate sleep, often a symptom of depression or bipolar disorder.

Treatment Options

Treating the underlying condition is the most important step. Effective treatment of anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD often resolves associated sleep problems.

Sleep-targeted medications when appropriate include: trazodone (non-habit-forming, commonly used for sleep); mirtazapine; low-dose doxepin; quetiapine at low doses for hyperarousal; and prazosin specifically for PTSD nightmares. We generally avoid habit-forming benzodiazepines and "Z-drugs" for chronic insomnia, preferring safer long-term options.

CBT-I (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia) is the gold-standard non-medication treatment. We provide sleep hygiene guidance and referral to CBT-I specialists when indicated.

Telehealth Sleep Disorder Treatment

We offer telehealth across Massachusetts. Many patients find it easier to discuss sleep issues from the comfort and privacy of home.

Serving Dartmouth and Surrounding Areas

DLH Consulting is at 516 Hawthorn St., Suite 2 & 4, Dartmouth, MA 02747, serving the South Coast and beyond.