What is insomnia?

Key Points:

• Insomnia is a common sleep disorder affecting 10% to 15% of adults chronically, with up to 50% experiencing occasional symptoms, characterized by difficulty falling or staying asleep and resulting in daytime impairments such as fatigue and reduced productivity.
• Causes of insomnia are multifactorial, including stress, anxiety, depression, physical health conditions (like chronic pain and sleep apnea), hormonal changes in women, certain medications, and lifestyle habits such as irregular sleep schedules and late caffeine or alcohol consumption.
• Chronic insomnia is diagnosed when symptoms occur at least three nights a week for three months or longer and can lead to serious consequences including increased risks of depression and cardiovascular disease.
• The most effective long-term treatment for chronic insomnia is cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), which addresses negative sleep habits and thoughts and is preferred over medication due to its lasting benefits and lower risks.
• Additional management strategies include maintaining consistent sleep routines, limiting stimulants and screen time before bed, and seeking medical evaluation for severe or persistent symptoms, especially if accompanied by unusual nighttime behaviors or signs of other sleep disorders.