What is Insomnia?

Insomnia is more than difficulty falling asleep—it’s a persistent struggle to get the restful, quality sleep your body and mind need. Whether it’s trouble drifting off, staying asleep, or waking up too early, those suffering from insomnia often wake up feeling exhausted, unfocused, and irritable. This common sleep disorder affects millions, leading to fatigue, poor concentration, and an increased risk of health issues over time.

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Sleep is essential for physical and mental well-being, yet insomnia can impact anyone. It’s more prevalent in women, older adults, and individuals experiencing significant life changes such as divorce, grief, or career stress. Short-term insomnia may last only a few days and is often triggered by temporary stressors. In contrast, chronic insomnia—lasting weeks or even months—can lead to mood disorders like anxiety and depression, as well as increased risks of accidents and illness.

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Causes and Symptoms of Insomnia

Short-term (transient) insomnia is often linked to stress, illness, travel, or temporary disruptions in routine. Once the issue resolves, sleep typically returns to normal. Chronic insomnia, however, may have deeper underlying causes, including:

• Medical conditions or medications

• Anxiety, depression, or other mood disorders

• Stimulants like caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol

• Stress from major life events, such as job loss or bereavement

• Shift work or inconsistent sleep schedules

• Sleep disturbances like snoring, nightmares, or panic attacks

 

One of the biggest challenges with insomnia is the vicious cycle of worrying about sleep. The more you stress over whether or not you’ll be able to sleep, the harder it becomes to relax—ultimately fueling the problem.​