Clinical pictures

In the case of a loss of intelligence, the disorders of the brain are irreparable, so that it cannot be cured. Targeted training and training tailored to the individual needs of those affected can help to improve cognitive performance. These lead to an increase in the general mental abilities as well as stability of the acquired knowledge. Normal intelligence cannot be achieved despite these efforts.

The aim of therapy is to improve the existing skills as much as possible so that daily tasks can be partially or almost completely taken over by the person concerned.

Most of the people affected depend on the support of their family in their daily lives as part of a reduction in their intelligence. This is a big, lifelong task for family members and often a full-time job. In order to have the necessary patience, perseverance and care, it is essential that family members pay attention to their limitations and do not take over. It is essential to make use of early offers of help that relieve family life and support relatives in the challenges they face. Visiting self-help groups helps many.

Sleeping pills, even plant-based, should never be taken without medical supervision or for a long time. The danger of becoming dependent is very high. Doctors prescribe sleeping pills in most cases only as a short-term temporary solution. In healthy people, the natural sleep-wakefulness cycle regulates itself without outside help. That is why the most important goal in the management of sleep disturbances is to find the cause and correct it.

Depression can be both a trigger and a consequence of sleep disorders. Ongoing sleep problems for long time mean persistent stress for the body. This can overload the body and mind. This can lead to depression. At the same time, disturbed sleep is one of the most common symptoms of depression.

Many sufferers have difficulty going to sleep or wake up too early in the morning. As a result, their energy and wellbeing are reduced. A sleep disturbance should also be addressed during therapy.

Sleep disorders have multiple causes. These include physical and mental issues, certain medicines, the sleep environment, lifestyle issues, or certain periods in life. A frequent physical problem is sleep apnoea, consisting of periods of nocturnal breathing arrest. Other common physical causes are restlessness in the legs (restless-legs syndrome), pain syndromes, or cardiovascular disorders. Sleep disturbances can also accompany several mental diseases, such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder.

Other common triggers are noise, shift work, bruxism (teeth grinding), use of drugs or alcohol, sleepwalking, or the special circumstances of pregnancy and menopause. Also, the influence of worry, stress and burdensome events on sleep should not be underestimated.