The study analyzed 12 years worth of data on over 14,000 Canadians that were obtained through Canada’s National Population Health Survey between the years of 1994 and 2007. Subjects ranged in age between 18 and 102 years. .

After accounting for social demographics, health status and lifestyle factors that increase the risk of mortality, researchers involved in the study determined that the consumption of sleeping pills for the treatment of insomnia or anti-anxiety medications was associated with a 36 percent increase in the risk of death.

Scientists believe that the association between consumption of sleeping and anti-anxiety medication could be caused by several factors, including delayed reaction time and decreased coordination, which could result in more falls and accidents.

People experiencing ongoing insomnia symptoms (difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep or waking up early) should speak with their doctor or a sleep specialist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the best method of treatment.

Sleep experts typically recommend cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to ease symptoms before prescribing medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a non-pharmacological way to obtain long- lasting relief for insomnia. Because of potential side effects and addictive properties, sleep medications are typically only used to relieve symptoms for a short period of time.  Patients often resist CBT because they think it won’t work but many research studies and my own clinical experience show that it is the best long term treatment for insomnia.

Many people fail to realize that they are putting both their mental and physical health at risk by not getting the sleep they need. Serious health problems such as heart disease, obesity and depression are associated with sleep deprivation.  A lack of sleep can also weaken the immune system, which increases vulnerability to disease.

While the amount of sleep varies individually, most people need seven-to-eight hours of sleep each night in order to maintain good health.

A variety of factors can lead to sleep deprivation, including stress, change of environment and illness.  If you notice a change in your mood or you are frequently struggling to fall or stay asleep, there are several initial steps you can take in order to improve your sleep on your own.

First, establish a bedtime routine that includes “wind down” time before bed. Avoid caffeine and exercise in the evening, as both are stimulants and make it more difficult to fall asleep. After consulting a primary physician, you may want to try an over-the-counter sleep aid, such as melatonin , which is considered to be a natural sleep aid. If problems persist, you may need professional help to resolve your sleep issues.

http://longevitymag.co.za/i_columnists/sleep-on-it/

http://www.thedailybeast.com/blogs-and-stories/2010-03-04/the-white-house-mystery-drug/

For good information about medications, I suggest Web MD.  Here are the links for the medications mentioned.

1. Provigil: http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-16964-Provigil.aspx?drugid=16964&drugname=Provigil

2. Nuvigil: http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-152275-Nuvigil+Oral.aspx?drugid=152275&drugname=Nuvigil+Oral&source=1

3. Ambien: http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-9690-Ambien+Oral.aspx?drugid=9690&drugname=Ambien+Oral

4. Lunesta: http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-92350-LUNESTA+Oral.aspx?drugid=92350&drugname=LUNESTA+Oral

5. Sonata: http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-17532-Sonata+Oral.aspx?drugid=17532&drugname=Sonata+Oral&source=1

http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/excessive-sleepiness-10/sleep-supplements-herbs?page=2