Nobody knows the value of a good night's sleep better than a parent, especially a parent of newborn. In the sometimes desperate attempt to get enough rest, people will employ all sorts of measures to help them fall asleep. This includes the use of sleep aids in the form of drugs.

Now, however, a new study has found that taking medication to treat insomnia and anxiety can increase a person's risk for mortality by as much as 36%. The findings, published in the Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, are the result of a 12-year study that analyzed data on over 14,000 people. Information concerning demographic, health, and lifestyle characteristics of people between the ages of 18 to 102 years was gathered every two years between 1994 and 2007.

What researchers observed was that regular use of sleep or anxiety medication (at least once a month) was associated with a 36% higher mortality risk when compared to people who took no medication (15.7% versus 10.5%, respectively).

This difference held true even after weighing in such factors as alcohol and tobacco consumption, overall physical health, activity level, and whether or not the person was suffering from depression.

Why this link exists is not completely clear, though scientists have some possible explanations. Sleep and anxiety medication often have the side effect of slowing down reaction times, as well as a person's level of alertness and their coordination. When these abilities are compromised, it can increase the chances of an accident happening, including falls and errors in judgment, which can then lead to serious injuries and even death.

Ironically, the drugs themselves have physiological consequences that may prevent a good night's sleep, including affecting the respiratory system as well as the central nervous system, which can possibly lead to emotional problems.

The article sheds light on some of the potential problems surrounding the regular use of medication. They also highlight the importance of following the doctor's and pharmacist's guidelines regarding any sort of drug, even those as seemingly benign as sleep aids.

Bear in mind, while insomnia is fairly common, affecting anywhere from 30% to 50% of the population, it is usually a symptom of another condition rather than a standalone disease. It is also difficult to make a general statement about insomnia because people's sleep needs can vary widely; different circumstances call for different measures, including medication.

With this in mind, if you are having trouble sleeping, you should discuss all of your options with your physicians and always tell them of any problems or concerns you may have.

For more information, visit the website for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services or the National Sleep Foundation.