Somniphobia, also known as sleep phobia, is a condition where a person experiences an irrational fear of sleep. This phobia can be so intense that it interferes with a person's daily life, making it difficult for them to lead a normal life.

Bashir Ahmed, a 31-year-old IT professional from Bangalore, is one such person who has been struggling with somniphobia. Ahmed, who used to sleep at 1 am and wake up at 8 am for work, now finds it difficult to sleep due to his fear of sleep. Doctors have diagnosed him with somniphobia, a condition that is characterized by symptoms such as excessive sweating, palpitations, and a feeling of impending doom.

According to Dr. Satdeep Singh, a consultant psychologist from Bangalore, somniphobia is a psychological disorder that can be triggered by various factors, including stress, anxiety, and trauma. "People with somniphobia often experience hyperarousal, which makes it difficult for them to relax and fall asleep," he explains.

Dr. Sudhir Kumar, a professor and head of the neurology department at Apollo Hospitals in Hyderabad, says that somniphobia is a common condition that affects around 60% of the population. "However, only a few people seek medical help, and most of them are referred to us by their friends and family," he adds.

Somniphobia can manifest in different ways, including a fear of falling asleep, a fear of not being able to wake up, or a fear of having a nightmare. People with somniphobia may also experience physical symptoms such as a racing heart, sweating, and trembling.

To overcome somniphobia, Dr. Singh recommends relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualization. "Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is also effective in treating somniphobia, as it helps people change their negative thoughts and behaviors associated with sleep," he says.

In addition to therapy, Dr. Kumar suggests maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bedtime. "Reading a book before sleep can also help, as it can distract the mind and relax the body," he adds.

Somniphobia may seem like a trivial condition, but it can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life. By seeking medical help and adopting healthy lifestyle habits, people with somniphobia can overcome their fear of sleep and lead a normal life.

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