Dr. Mitchell has dedicated training in sleep medicine — and better sleep is often where healing begins.
Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder. A person with insomnia experiences difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, which can last from days to weeks. Insomnia may be the primary issue, or it may be associated with other medical conditions or medications. Most cases are related to poor sleep habits, depression, anxiety, lack of exercise, chronic illness, or certain medications.
Insomnia leads to daytime exhaustion, which causes difficulties with mental acuity, memory function, and emotional responses. If a patient is already experiencing certain mental health issues, insomnia can intensify the symptoms. Sleep deprivation also affects the immune system, making the patient more susceptible to other illnesses, as well as to weight gain, poor cognitive function, and increased irritability.
Dr. Mitchell has a strong interest in the study of sleep medicine and has studied with sleep physicians at LSU Medical Center in the treatment of insomnia and other sleep conditions. As a psychiatrist trained in sleep medicine, she has had extensive training in behavioral changes and sleep hygiene, as well as in the psychopharmacology of sleep medications. She has a keen understanding of not only the potential side effects of medications, but also the unintended consequences of some drug interactions. Dr. Mitchell practices cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), the most effective treatment for insomnia. She also provides counseling and coaching on good sleep hygiene and relaxation techniques, and may encourage lifestyle changes to diet and exercise to help improve a patient’s sleep architecture.
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