Sleep problems are a common issue among veterans. After serving in the military, many veterans face challenges getting a good night's rest. The physical and emotional toll of service often leads to various sleep disorders, which can significantly affect a veteran's quality of life.
In this blog, we'll explore the five most common sleep disorders among veterans. Moreover, we will analyze what causes insomnia and how sleep disturbances are addressed by the VA, including VA disability benefits for insomnia.
What Are the Five Most Common Sleep Disorders?
Veterans often face a range of sleep disorders that stem from their time in service. These disorders are not only frustrating but can also contribute to more serious health issues. Here are the five most common sleep disorders found in veterans:
Insomnia – Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep is one of the most common sleep disorders affecting veterans. It often results from stress, anxiety, and physical injuries sustained during service.
Symptoms of insomnia:
- Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- Waking up too early in the morning
- Feeling unrefreshed after sleep
- Daytime fatigue or irritability
Sleep Apnea is a disorder that causes breathing problems during sleep. It's often seen in veterans, especially those with physical injuries or those who have gained weight after leaving the service.
Symptoms of sleep apnea:
- Loud snoring for air while sleeping
- Waking up with a sore throat or a dry mouth
- Feeling fatigued during the day despite adequate sleep
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering things
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)—Veterans who have sustained physical injuries, particularly to their legs or lower back, may experience this condition. This condition creates an overwhelming urge to move the legs while trying to rest.
Symptoms of RLS:
- A strong urge to move the legs, especially when lying down
- Uncomfortable sensations, often described as itching, crawling, or tingling
- Worsening symptoms during the evening or night
- Difficulty falling asleep due to leg discomfort
Night Terrors and Nightmares – PTSD-related nightmares and night terrors are common sleep disturbances among veterans. Moreover, those who have experienced combat or traumatic events during their service.
Symptoms of night terrors:
- Sudden, intense fear during sleep
- Waking up screaming or in a panic
- No memory of the event upon waking
- Difficulty returning to sleep after an episode
Depression and Sleep Problems- Depression is another mental health condition that is common among veterans and has a direct impact on sleep. Depression can lead to both insomnia and hypersomnia, where the individual either cannot sleep or sleeps excessively.
Symptoms of depression-related sleep problems:
- Insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep)
- Hypersomnia (sleeping too much)
- Waking up feeling unrefreshed or exhausted
- Low energy, even after long periods of sleep
How to Address Sleep Disorders Among Veterans
If you are a veteran struggling with any of these sleep disorders, seeking help is essential. Treatment options can vary depending on the specific condition but may include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I): A highly effective treatment for insomnia, this therapy focuses on changing negative thoughts and behaviors surrounding sleep.
- Medication: Sometimes, doctors may prescribe sleep aids or drugs to manage conditions like sleep apnea or depression.
- Therapies for PTSD: Addressing PTSD with therapies like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) or cognitive behavioral therapy can help improve sleep.
- Sleep studies: If sleep apnea or another physical sleep disorder is suspected, a sleep study can help identify the problem and determine the best action.
What Is the Most Common Sleep Disorder in the Military?
Among all the sleep disorders veterans face, insomnia is the most common. Sleep disturbances like insomnia are a significant concern for veterans transitioning from military life to civilian life. Factors like constant vigilance, irregular sleep schedules, and exposure to stressful environments contribute to insomnia. Because of the stress of deployment, the trauma has lasting effects on a veteran's ability. As a result, many veterans find themselves lying awake at night, unable to quiet their racing thoughts or discomfort, which can lead to chronic insomnia.
What are the benefits of VA Disability for insomnia?
- Tax-free financial compensation is based on the severity of insomnia, usually rated under mental health conditions like PTSD.
- Compensation increases with the severity of the disability rating (0% to 100%).
- Eligible for VA healthcare services, including sleep-related treatments, mental health support, and medications.
- Access to specialized care for insomnia and associated conditions like PTSD, anxiety, or chronic pain.
- Support for veterans struggling to maintain employment due to insomnia.
- If the veteran is rated 30% or higher for insomnia, dependents (spouse, children, etc.) may receive additional benefits, such as healthcare and educational support.
- Veterans with a service-connected disability (including insomnia) may receive priority access to VA resources like housing assistance and counseling.
- Veterans with severe disabilities may qualify for additional compensation above the standard disability rating, depending on the impact of insomnia on daily life.
What Are the VA Sleep Disorders?
The VA (Department of Veterans Affairs) recognizes various sleep disorders affecting veterans. These include common conditions like insomnia and sleep apnea, as well as more complex disorders like sleep disturbances caused by PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder). The VA's approach to treating these disorders is centered on addressing the physical and psychological aspects of the conditions.
In addition, the VA offers a comprehensive treatment plan, including medical care, therapy, and medications to help veterans manage their sleep problems.
What Causes Insomnia in Veterans?
A combination of factors can cause insomnia in veterans. Most often, it stems from psychological stress, physical injuries, or the traumatic experiences of combat. PTSD is a leading contributor to insomnia, as veterans with this condition often relive traumatic events, causing them to experience nightmares or heightened anxiety. These experiences make it difficult to relax enough to fall asleep. Additionally, the transition from military to civilian life causes anxiety, depression, and stress, all of which can lead to insomnia. Physical injuries, such as those caused by combat, also contribute to sleep issues. Chronic pain or discomfort from these injuries also prevents veterans from achieving restful sleep, further exacerbating their mental health struggles.
VA Insomnia Rating Criteria
The VA uses specific criteria to assess the severity of insomnia and other sleep-related disorders. To qualify for VA disability benefits for insomnia, veterans must demonstrate that their condition significantly impacts their ability to function. The VA rating system for insomnia considers the frequency and severity of the disorder, including:
- Mild Insomnia: Occasional difficulty falling asleep but not significantly impairing daily functioning.
- Moderate Insomnia: Frequent difficulty sleeping, resulting in daytime fatigue, irritability, and reduced concentration ability.
- Severe Insomnia: Chronic insomnia that significantly impacts a veteran's quality of life, including persistent fatigue, anxiety, and depression.
Conclusion
Sleep disorders among veterans are more common than many people may realize, they can have a profound impact on their daily lives. However, understanding the common sleep disorders, such as insomnia, sleep apnea, and PTSD-related sleep disorders, helps to address these issues effectively. Moreover, with the proper treatment and support, veterans regain control over their sleep, leading to better overall health and a higher quality of life.
