Talking to Your GP About Sleep

You can discuss sleep concerns with a GP without working through a shopping list first. Use the free questionnaire below to organise what has been happening and the questions you want to ask.

Free GP sleep questionnaire

Two printable A4 pages covering your sleep pattern, daytime impact, medicines, relevant changes and questions for your GP. No signup or email address needed.

Download the GP questionnaire (PDF)

When to ask for help

The HSE insomnia guide advises speaking to a GP or mental health professional if sleep problems persist despite habit changes, are hard to cope with or affect daily life. Read its advice directly; this page is not a triage tool.

What to bring

Notes or a sleep diary

If practical, record your observations before the appointment. Do not delay seeking help to finish a diary.

  • Approximate bedtimes and waking times.
  • What you notice when awake at night.
  • How you feel and function during the day.
  • Changes to your routine and anything you have already tried.
  • Observations a partner has mentioned that you want to discuss.

Your medication list

Bring the names of prescription medicines, pharmacy products and supplements, with their packaging if useful. Ask for advice before making changes.

Your questions

  • What information would help you assess my situation?
  • What options can we discuss?
  • Would any referral be appropriate, and how does it work?
  • When should I follow up?

Appointment and follow-up costs

Ask the practice for its current fee and any charges for letters or follow-up. Check eligibility for public services and any insurance contribution directly with the relevant organisation. We do not quote a standard national appointment price.

Services you may want to ask about

CBT-I

The HSE includes cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia in its information about care options. Ask your GP whether it is appropriate and what services you can access.

Medicines

Ask your clinician or pharmacist about any proposed medicine, its leaflet and follow-up arrangements. For Irish information and service links, see our melatonin guide.

Sleep-clinic referrals

Our provider directory gives starting points for enquiries. Check the referral process, location, fees and waiting time before booking.

Questions about particular symptoms

Describe your own experience rather than trying to match yourself to a diagnosis online. Our restless-legs navigation page helps organise questions for a consultation.

Medical decisions: Ask your GP or pharmacist which options are appropriate for you. Prepare for a GP conversation · Medical disclaimer.