ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews the genetic and other physiological vulnerabilities that act as predisposing factors; the environmental and psychological stressors that may precipitate or trigger difficulties sleeping; and the behavioural and psychological factors that perpetuate Insomnia and prevent individuals from re-establishing normal sleep. Chronobiology is a branch of biology that investigates the cyclical nature of biological changes. In humans, chronobiology works towards understanding of how the body clock or circadian rhythm operates. A lack of motivation and negative symptoms, such as anhedonia, are major hurdles to improving sleep and engaging in daytime activities. When a person is in remission, memories of inappropriate activities performed during a psychotic episode can dominate ruminative thoughts. The stigma of having a mental illness can reinforce unhelpful lifestyle behaviours and may be a contributing factor that stops someone seeking help for sleep problems outside mental health settings.
