Insomnia

Insomnia

Insomnia is a common sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or achieving restorative sleep despite having adequate opportunity for sleep. It can lead to daytime fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and impaired functioning in various aspects of life. Insomnia can be acute, lasting for a short period, or chronic, persisting for several weeks or months.

Individuals with insomnia may have trouble falling asleep, spending a prolonged time in bed before finally drifting off. This may be accompanied by racing thoughts, worry, or heightened arousal that interferes with the transition from wakefulness to sleep.

Even if individuals with insomnia manage to fall asleep initially, they may awaken frequently during the night and have difficulty returning to sleep. These awakenings can disrupt sleep continuity and result in fragmented or shallow sleep patterns. Some individuals with insomnia may wake up earlier than desired and find it challenging to go back to sleep, despite feeling tired and unrested. This early morning awakening can contribute to overall sleep deprivation and exacerbate daytime fatigue. Even after spending sufficient time in bed, individuals with insomnia may wake up feeling unrefreshed and fatigued, as if they haven't truly rested. This lack of restorative sleep can impair cognitive function, mood regulation, and overall well-being. Persists for at least three nights a week for three months or longer and is often associated with underlying medical, psychological, or lifestyle factors. Chronic insomnia can have significant impacts on physical health, mental health, and quality of life if left untreated. Stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, or other psychological disorders can disrupt sleep patterns and contribute to the development or exacerbation of insomnia.