Sleep disorders can adversely affect many areas of life – overall health, ability to work efficiently, and even safety. One of the most common sleep disorders is sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a condition characterised by pauses in normal breathing patterns whilst asleep. These pauses can last anywhere from a few seconds to minutes and can occur with varying frequency. Treatment options are available for people suffering from sleep apnea, and a good night’s sleep is possible.

Insomnia is another common sleep disorder which can negatively affect a person’s daily functioning. Insomnia affects a person’s ability to get to, and stay, asleep.

In this ‘Speaking from Experience’ program, six people with sleep apnea and one person with insomnia discuss how their sleep disorder has impacted on different aspects of their lives. They share the ways that they manage their condition and offer words of advice for others also suffering from sleep disorders.

Last reviewed: 2016