Dr. Freeman's Blog Posts

A calm bedroom at dawn with soft natural light suggesting recovery from insomnia and nighttime rumination

When Insomnia Is Not Really About Sleep

Sometimes insomnia is not really about sleep. The sleep problem is real, but the cause may be anxiety, trauma, perfectionism, stress, rumination, or a nervous system that has learned to stay on alert at night.

Many people come to treatment after trying sleep hygiene, supplements, medications, meditation apps, or advice

Read More »
A tired adult sitting calmly on the edge of a bed at night, unable to sleep despite exhaustion

Why You Can’t Sleep Even When You’re Exhausted

If you are tired but can’t sleep, the problem is usually not a lack of exhaustion. It is often a state of nervous-system activation. Your body may be worn down, your eyes may feel heavy, and you may be desperate for rest, but your brain is still scanning, planning, worrying,

Read More »
Why can't I sleep when it's hot? A man rests in bed at dawn while educational graphics illustrate body temperature regulation, circadian rhythm, and healthy sleep physiology.

Why Can’t I Sleep When It’s Hot?

Why Can’t I Sleep When It’s Hot? By Dr. Charles R. Freeman, Ph.D. You may have trouble sleeping when it’s hot because your body needs to cool down in order to fall asleep and stay asleep. You may be asking yourself, “Why can’t I sleep when it’s hot?” When your

Read More »
Adult reviewing a sleep journal with a therapist while seeking help for insomnia and chronic sleep problems

When Should You Seek Help for Insomnia?

When Should You Seek Help for Insomnia? By Dr. Charles R. Freeman, Ph.D. You should seek help for insomnia when sleep problems last more than a few weeks, affect your daytime functioning, increase anxiety about bedtime, or lead you to rely more heavily on medication, alcohol, or other sleep aids.

Read More »

Dr. Freeman's Articles on Sleep, Trauma, and Behavioral Medicine