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What is insomnia?
Insomnia is difficulty in getting to sleep or staying asleep which can lead to tiredness and other symptoms. Insomnia is a common and very debilitating problem. It can affect how we function at work and at home. It can also affect our quality of life and our mental health.
What is the Insomnia and Behavioural Sleep Medicine Clinic?
The Insomnia and Behavioural Sleep Medicine Clinic treats people with insomnia, nightmares, body clock disorders, restless legs, sleep paralysis and related disorders.
This is a comprehensive service with input from other specialities such as psychiatry, psychology and occupational therapy. The clinic also has links with other sleep and specialist services across UCLH.
You will be seen by a doctor or therapist who will do a thorough assessment of your condition. You will be asked about any other sleep disorders, medical conditions or mental health conditions that might be contributing to the sleep disorder. If you need further tests, we will arrange this. At the end of the session the clinician will discuss the treatment options with you and agree a treatment plan.
Most patients are offered a course of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy. This is a scientifically proven set of practical techniques to improve sleep. The therapy is usually done in small groups, but some patients may be offered individual sessions. The clinic also works with GPs to offer advice on sleeping pills and other medications that might help your sleep. After finishing the treatment you will have another session with a clinician to discuss whether you need further help.
If you are unable to attend your appointment please let us know at least 48 hours beforehand so we can offer your appointment to someone else. If you do not attend your appointment without telling us we may refer you back to your GP. Following your treatment you will be referred back to your GP.
The RLHIM is also a teaching hospital and from time to time other healthcare professionals may observe in outpatient clinics as part of a training course. We will always ask your permission for students to sit in during your consultation. You do not have to have students present if you would prefer not to.
Patient Services
The Royal London Hospital for Integrated Medicine
60 Great Ormond Street
London
WC1N 3HR
Tel: 020 3448 2000
Fax: 020 3448 2004
Switchboard: 020 3456 7890
Email: uclh.enquiry.rlhim.patients@nhs.net (not for referrals)
Website: www.uclh.nhs.uk/rlhim
The Royal London Hospital for Integrated Medicine (RLHIM) is part of University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and accepts GP referrals via NHS e-Referral Service (formerly Choose and Book referrals).
Patients can also be referred by their NHS hospital consultant. NHS Choices provides information and an opportunity to provide feedback about our service: www.nhs.uk
Page last updated: 06 June 2024
Review due: 01 June 2025