What Is Insomnia?
Insomnia means having trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early and not being able to go back to sleep. It’s one of the most common sleep problems, affecting up to one in three adults at some point.
People with insomnia often feel tired during the day, have trouble concentrating, or feel irritable. But insomnia is more than just a bad night’s sleep—it can seriously affect your health and quality of life.
Here are some of the most common types of sleep disorders:
💤 Common Causes and Risk Factors
Many things can lead to insomnia, including:
Stress and worry – about health, finances, or loved ones.
Health conditions – like chronic pain, breathing problems, reflux, or overactive bladder.
Mental health – such as depression, anxiety, or grief.
Medications – including some for blood pressure, asthma, allergies, or depression.
Poor sleep habits – like irregular bedtimes, too much screen time, or napping late in the day.
You’re more likely to have insomnia if you are over 60, have other health problems, or are under stress.
⏰ Short-Term vs. Chronic Insomnia
Short-term insomnia lasts a few days or weeks—often triggered by stress, illness, or changes in schedule.
Chronic insomnia happens at least 3 nights a week for 3 months or more. It may be related to ongoing health or emotional challenges.
🧠 Why It Matters
Insomnia isn’t just frustrating—it can affect your entire body and brain. Poor sleep has been linked to:
Trouble with memory and focus
Mood problems like depression and anxiety
Higher risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and even dementia
Lower quality of life and more accidents
Sleep is not a luxury—it’s essential for your health.
Video: Insomnia
What Can You Do?
The good news? Insomnia can be treated—even without sleeping pills. Here’s what works:
✅ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I)
CBT-I is the most effective long-term treatment. It helps you change thoughts and behaviors that get in the way of sleep.
✅ Healthy sleep habits
Simple changes like keeping a regular sleep schedule, avoiding screens at bedtime, and creating a relaxing bedtime routine can help. You can get our good sleep habits checklist — just ask.
✅ Treating underlying problems
Managing pain, anxiety, or other conditions may improve your sleep.
✅ Using your body’s natural rhythm
Morning light, daily movement, and a calm evening routine all support better sleep.
When to Get Help
If sleep problems are affecting your life, don’t wait. Talk to your doctor if:
Trouble sleeping lasts more than a few weeks
You feel tired or irritable most days
You rely on sleep medications frequently
Sleep problems are affecting your health or mood
You don’t have to live with poor sleep. Help is available—and effective.
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