Clinomania, also known as clinophilia, is a term that comes from Greek, where "clino" means bed and "mania" refers to an intense desire or inclination. It is a psychological disorder characterized by an excessive attraction towards the bed and the act of sleeping, which can significantly interfere with the daily life of those who suffer from it.
What is clinomania?
Clinomania is defined as the persistent tendency to remain in bed for prolonged periods of time, showing an unwillingness to get up and face daily responsibilities. People with this disorder experience a strong attraction to the comfort and security that lying down provides, often preferring to stay in bed even when they should be doing productive activities.
While resting and sleeping are activities necessary to maintain physical and mental health, clinomania differs from simple laziness or usual tiredness by presenting an uncontrollable compulsion to stay in bed, even despite the negative consequences that this may have on your work and social life. and emotional.
Symptoms of clinomania
1. Resistance to getting up
One of the main characteristics of clinomania is the persistent resistance to getting out of bed, even when the person is fully aware of their responsibilities and obligations. They may experience a strong desire to remain lying down for long periods of time, constantly postponing the moment of getting up.
2. Impairment in daily functioning
Those who suffer from clinomania may experience significant impairment in their daily functioning, whether in the workplace, academic, social or personal sphere. Difficulty meeting schedules, commitments and daily tasks can generate a vicious cycle of avoidance and procrastination.
3. Feelings of guilt and shame
The inability to control the need to stay in bed can lead to feelings of guilt and shame in those who suffer from clinomania. They may be aware of the negative consequences of their behavior, but they find themselves trapped in a pattern of behavior that is difficult to break.
4. Sleep disturbances
Although clinomania involves an excessive desire to sleep, this does not always translate into restful rest. Sufferers may experience difficulty falling asleep, frequent awakenings during the night, or even insomnia, contributing to a non-restorative sleep cycle and daytime sleepiness.
Causes of clinomania
Clinomania can be influenced by a combination of genetic, biological, psychological and environmental factors. Although there is no single cause that explains this disorder, some of the possible reasons that may contribute to its development include:
1. Psychological factors
Mood disorders, such as depression or anxiety, may be related to the onset of clinomania. The need to take refuge in bed and sleep can be a coping mechanism to deal with overwhelming emotions or stressful situations.
2. Self-esteem problems
People with low self-esteem or lack of motivation can find a refuge in bed to escape from the pressures and expectations of the outside world. The act of lying down can provide a sense of security and comfort that is missed in other areas of life.
3. Environmental
The environment in which the person develops can also play an important role in the development of clinomania. Factors such as overwork, chronic stress, lack of healthy sleep routines and the absence of rewarding activities can favor the appearance of this excessive attraction to bed.
Diagnosis of clinomania
The diagnosis of clinomania is made through evaluation by a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. It is essential to perform a thorough evaluation of symptoms, medical and emotional history, as well as an exploration of possible triggers that may be contributing to the disorder.
It is important to differentiate clinomania from other sleep disorders, such as hypersomnia, sleep-wake disorder or sleep apnea, since each of them requires a specific therapeutic approach. The mental health professional may also perform complementary tests, such as standardized questionnaires or sleep analysis, to obtain more information about the disorder and its impact on the patient's life.
Treatment of clinomania
1. Cognitive-behavioral therapy
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective in the treatment of clinomania by helping to identify and modify dysfunctional thoughts and behaviors associated with the disorder. Through structured sessions with a therapist, a person can learn strategies to improve their time management, establish healthy sleep routines, and address underlying emotions that may be fueling their attraction to bed.
2. Medication
In some cases, the use of medication may be considered as part of the treatment of clinomania, especially if comorbidities such as depression or anxiety exist. Psychotropic drugs can help stabilize mood, improve sleep quality and reduce daytime sleepiness, always under the supervision of a health professional.
3. Modifying sleep habits
Adopting healthy sleeping habits is essential for managing clinomania. Establishing a regular sleep routine, limiting exposure to screens before going to sleep, creating an environment conducive to rest and avoiding stimulants such as caffeine late at night are some of the recommendations that can promote restful sleep and contribute to reducing the attraction to bed during the day.
4. Family and social support
Having the support of family, friends or support groups can be of great help in the process of recovery from clinomania. Emotional support, understanding and external motivation can be key factors in overcoming the difficulties derived from this disorder and promoting positive changes in the lifestyle of the affected person.
Conclusions
In conclusion, clinomania is a psychological disorder that is characterized by an excessive attraction to the bed and the act of sleeping, which can interfere with the daily functioning and emotional well-being of those who suffer from it. Although the exact causes of this disorder are not completely clear, psychological, self-esteem and environmental factors can influence its development.
Accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential to address clinomania effectively and help the person recover their functionality and quality of life. Cognitive-behavioral therapy, modification of sleep habits, medication in specific cases and social support are key tools in the management of this disorder.
It is important to remember that clinomania is a real disorder and that seeking professional help is essential to overcome its effects and improve the quality of life of those who suffer from it.