Heart palpitations are a common physiological symptom that constitutes a maintenance cycle (Kennerley et al., 2017). The main mechanism for developing this symptom is to increase the automatism of the sinus node, which normally sets the correct rhythm of the heart. If a person feels a quickening and increased heartbeat, this is not always evidence of problems with the cardiovascular system. Rapid heart rate may be due to physiological compensatory mechanisms in response to the release of adrenaline into the blood and activation of the sympathetic nervous system, which is a response to external factors. This symptom has negative consequences not only for the cardiovascular system, but also for psychological health, contributing to increased anxiety and depression.
In some cases, there are pains in various parts of the body or organs, a feeling of heaviness or tension in the body. Kennerley et al. (2017) note that symptoms can be caused by overwork. The body reacts to overwork in the following way: cardiac activity is activated, cortisol is released into the blood in large quantities, the liver produces glycogen, which is then converted into glucose, providing the body with energy. Breathing in this state becomes rapid as the lungs require more oxygen, the muscles tense up in preparation for physical action if necessary, and perspiration increases to cool the body in case of physical activity. In both the short and long term, this can contribute to the development of anxiety, restlessness, fear, as well as panic attacks.
Insomnia is one of the most common symptoms of sleep disorders. According to Rossman (2019), nearly 40% of people suffer from insomnia symptoms. CBT becomes especially relevant in cases of chronic insomnia, against the background of an anxiety-depressive disorder, when emotional aspects require more attention. Rossman (2019) found that CBT is more effective than prescription drugs in treating chronic insomnia. The cognitive part deals with the thoughts and beliefs that affect our sleep. The behavioral component helps develop good sleep habits and avoid behaviors that interfere with sleep. The main methods of CBT for insomnia are a strict sleep schedule, sleep hygiene, including noise, light, and temperature, bedtime behavior, and relaxation techniques, including meditation and breathing techniques. Taylor and Dietch (2018) point out the importance of stimulus control in which sleep habits are identified and modified, as exemplified by Cara described by Kennerley et al. (2017).
References
Kennerley, H., Kirk, J., & Westbrook, D. (2017). An introduction to cognitive behaviour therapy – Skills and applications (3rd ed.). Sage Publications.
Rossman J. (2019). Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia: An Effective and Underutilized Treatment for Insomnia. American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, 13(6), 544–547.
Taylor, D. J., & Dietch, J. R. (2018). Integration of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia. Journal of Psychotherapy Integration, 28(3), 269–274.