Good sleep is one of the most important parts of staying healthy. When sleep problems happen often, they affect energy, focus, and emotional balance. Sleep disturbances are common, and they can look like insomnia, sleep apnea, or restless legs syndrome. Quality sleep supports the brain and body, and without it, both mental and physical health can suffer.¹ 

At Northeast Health Services (NEHS), our clinics in Boston’s Government Center and South End provide care that addresses both mental health and sleep. Our providers evaluate underlying conditions, offer therapy and medication management, and work with clients to build healthier sleep habits. 

Understanding sleep problems and disturbances 

Sleep disturbances include any issue that interrupts the ability to fall asleep, stay asleep, or feel rested. Common problems are: 

• Insomnia, where falling asleep or staying asleep is difficult. 
• Sleep apnea, which causes breathing to stop and start during the night. 
• Restless legs syndrome, which creates uncomfortable sensations in the legs that disrupt sleep. 
• Circadian rhythm disorders, where the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle is off. 
• Parasomnias, such as sleepwalking or sleep talking.¹ 

Symptoms include daytime tiredness, poor concentration, irritability, and memory problems. Over time, poor sleep can increase the risk of anxiety and depression and make it harder to cope with stress.¹ 

The link between sleep and mental health 

Sleep and mental health affect each other in both directions. Poor sleep can make conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD worse. These same conditions can make it harder to get restful sleep. This cycle can leave people feeling stuck. 

Poor sleep is also tied to trouble regulating emotions, higher stress, and reduced problem-solving skills. Addressing sleep problems is often an important part of improving mental health outcomes and overall wellness.¹ 

How NEHS can help with sleep problems 

At NEHS, our providers focus on the mental health conditions that often contribute to poor sleep. At our Boston Government Center and South End locations, we offer: 

• Comprehensive evaluations to identify whether mental health symptoms or medications may be affecting rest. 
• Therapy options that address habits and thoughts linked to insomnia. 
• Medication management, when short-term or long-term support is needed to stabilize sleep. 
• Sleep hygiene education that gives clients tools to adjust routines and improve sleep quality. 

Our care integrates sleep support into broader mental health treatment, so clients can address both at the same time. 

Personalized care and support at NEHS 

Sleep disturbances often require care from more than one professional. NEHS works with therapists, psychiatric providers, and when needed, sleep specialists or primary care doctors. Our providers educate clients on how lifestyle, trauma, or medications may influence rest. We may also recommend tools such as sleep diaries to track patterns over time. If a sleep study is needed, we refer to trusted specialists and use results to guide follow-up treatment. 

Practical tips for managing sleep disturbances 

While professional care is important, simple changes can also support better rest: 

• Keep a consistent sleep and wake schedule. 
• Create a calm environment that is dark, quiet, and comfortable. 
• Limit caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol, especially in the evening. 
• Put away screens at least an hour before bedtime. 
• Use relaxation techniques such as mindfulness or breathing exercises.¹ 

If sleep problems last more than a few weeks or cause major daytime struggles, it is time to reach out for professional help.