Getting support for sleep problems

Occupational therapists

An occupational therapist helps people to be as independent as possible. Your GP, Parkinson’s nurse or specialist can refer you.

They can give you guidance on:

• the best type of bed or mattress for you
• equipment or aids which might help.

In some cases, an occupational therapist may be able to get you bed aids, mattresses and specialist beds free of charge. 

Read more about occupational therapy and Parkinson’s.

Physiotherapists

If soreness, stiffness or cramps are affecting your sleep, a physiotherapist might be able to help. 

They can teach you stretches and exercises to help ease cramps and make movements easier. 

Your GP, specialist, or Parkinson’s nurse can refer you. In some areas, you can self-refer. If you’re referred to an NHS service, there may be a waiting list for treatment.

Read more about physiotherapy and Parkinson’s. 

Sleep clinics 

A sleep clinic is a specialist centre for people having sleep problems. They’re also called sleep disorder centres and are sometimes located in hospitals. 

They may have a dedicated ward for patients having sleep tests, where you can stay overnight. Clinic staff can monitor how well you’re sleeping. Or they may give you a device to wear at home while you sleep, to measure your breathing or heart rate.

If you have a sleep clinic appointment, bring a list of all the medicines you’re taking, and any correspondence or information your specialist or Parkinson’s nurse has given you.

Sleep clinics are not available in all areas. Speak to your Parkinson’s nurse to find out if there’s one near you. 

Your GP or Parkinson’s nurse may be able to refer you to a mental health professional, like a psychologist or counsellor, who may offer psychological treatments for your sleep issues. 

You can also refer yourself directly to NHS counselling services without needing a GP referral. 

Cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBTi)

CBTi may help you to manage your habits and routines to deal with sleep issues.

Clinical guidelines recommend CBTi if:

• your insomnia is causing distress during the daytime
• improvements to your sleep hygiene haven't helped enough.

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) tries to help you manage problems by breaking them down into more manageable parts which feel less overwhelming. It is a practical kind of talking therapy that usually focuses on issues you’re going through at the time. 

As part of CBTi, you may:

• explore factors relating to your sleep
• keep a sleep diary
• focus on managing your thoughts and feelings
• focus on reducing your exposure to things which might make you feel awake
• learn relaxation techniques.

Research has shown that CBTi is more effective than sleeping medication in the long term.

You may also be recommended self-help resources for sleep issues. This could include books or online courses to help with anxiety, which you can work through at home at your own pace.

Our helpline can offer practical and emotional support if you're struggling with sleep problems. Call free at 0808 800 0303. If you prefer to write, you can email us at [email protected].

Sleepio

Sleepio is a 6-week digital course designed to help you sleep. It’s recommended by clinical guidelines and uses cognitive behavioural therapy. It is free on the NHS and you can access it on your computer or through the Sleepio app on your phone. You don’t need a prescription to use Sleepio.

Speak to your GP or Parkinson’s nurse for more information. 

Visit the Sleepio website.