Get a Good Night's Sleep: An Expert on Sleeping Disorders Shares the Latest Research to Help You Conquer Your Insomnia

Albert heads the sleep laboratory at New York Hospital-Cornell Medical Center, but this loosely organized volume presents more general information than specific observations from clinical studies. A short reader's quiz about sleep is followed by an explanation of insomnia and other sleep disorders and a protracted guideline for keeping a sleep journal. The chapter called ""Deciphering Your Insomnia,"" in which Albert helps readers assess what factors in their lives are interfering with sleep (e.g., anger, depression, lack of personal time, diet problems), is focused and helpful, as is her advice about the perils of sleeping pills and the pros and cons of naps. The author encourages readers to find their own ""rhythms"" and to experiment with relaxation techniques and alternative methods (here and there quoting Deepak Chopra). Reminding readers that everyone's sleep needs are different and are apt to change according to age, health, state of mind and level of stress, Albert advises: ""An attitude of relaxed curiosity about your problem will take you a lot further than a sense of urgency."" Her low-key message that insomnia isn't the worst that can happen may calm some sleep-deprived readers, but the tentative tone of her suggestions may inspire others to toss and turn. (Dec.)