Sleep disorders in the land of the midnight sun

For Whitehorse resident Charlie-Rose Pelletier, insomnia has been a constant struggle for the past two decades. However, she found that it worsened after she moved to the Yukon from Quebec a few years ago. “Sleeping for seven hours straight, for more than two nights in a row… what a treat,” she said in French, trying to stifle a yawn. “I’m going to be 30, it would be nice to sleep.”

Pelletier is not alone in her battle with sleep. Statistics Canada reports that 25 percent of Canadians are dissatisfied with their sleep quality. Some sleep specialists suggest that the challenges of getting good sleep may be heightened for individuals living in the North.

Annie Vallières, a sleep disorders expert at Laval University, explains that being dissatisfied with sleep does not necessarily equate to having insomnia. Insomnia is characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, occurring at least three times a week for three consecutive months. Vallières emphasizes that daytime distress is also a key component of diagnosing insomnia, as it can impact daily functioning and mental health.

The impact of light exposure on sleep is a significant factor in northern regions like the Yukon. Jessica Engle, a psychologist specializing in sleep disorders, notes that the fluctuating daylight hours in the North can disrupt the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Excessive daylight in summer and minimal daylight in winter can confuse the brain’s signals for sleep.

Pelletier experienced a noticeable change in her sleep patterns after moving to the Yukon, where summers have long days and winters have short days. She struggles with insomnia throughout the year, particularly during the summer when she gets minimal sleep. Josée Fortin, a teacher in Whitehorse, also adjusts her bedroom layout to combat sleep disturbances caused by varying daylight exposure.

Engle highlights the need for more research on sleep disorders in northern regions like the Yukon, as existing studies often focus on southern populations. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the relationship between inconsistent light exposure and sleep disorders in the North.

To address sleep disorders effectively, experts recommend identifying the specific type of disorder and understanding its underlying causes. Nancy Kurichiyil, a sleep specialist in Whitehorse, emphasizes the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment for conditions like sleep apnea. While clinics like Sleep and Wellness provide essential services, the lack of a dedicated sleep lab in the Yukon hinders comprehensive testing for various sleep disorders.

Engle suggests establishing a regular sleep schedule to regulate the body’s circadian rhythm and improve sleep quality. Therapy can also be beneficial in addressing underlying patterns that disrupt sleep. Pelletier found therapy helpful in understanding her sleep patterns and implementing strategies to enhance her sleep quality.

In conclusion, addressing sleep disorders in the North requires a comprehensive approach that considers the impact of light exposure, proper diagnosis, and personalized treatment plans. By prioritizing sleep health and seeking appropriate care, individuals like Pelletier can work towards improving their quality of life and overall well-being.