Presenter: Catherine Darley, ND

Original Date: December 3, 2023

The top ten most prevalent medical conditions come with a high cost, both for individuals and for society. Sleep disorders and insufficient sleep contribute to these common diseases, and are an essential part of the holistic treatment plan. For example, sleep conditions that contribute to hypertension include insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea and insufficient sleep syndrome. Poor sleep in mid-life increases risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Covid-19 severity is worse in people with obstructive sleep apnea, and is also influenced by melatonin, the circadian “hormone of darkness.” This course first discusses the mechanisms by which sleep disorders contribute to the pathophysiology of medical conditions. Then we will discuss the naturopathic and conventional treatment of the most common sleep disorders seen in the primary care setting.

Dr. Catherine Darley is the leader in natural sleep medicine. She founded The Institute of Naturopathic Sleep Medicine Inc in Seattle which is dedicated to patient care, public education about sleep health, and consultation with high-risk populations such as first responders. Dr. Darley regularly writes articles and trains healthcare providers in the treatment of sleep disorders. She has served as adjunct faculty at Bastyr University and National University of Natural Medicine. Dr. Darley now focuses on teaching people sleep skills so they can thrive at home, at work, and have a high quality of life. You can find her online courses at SkilledSleeper.com, on Instagram @skilledsleeper, and Substack.

1.5 General CEUs approved by OBNM