FAQs: Insomnia

Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, leading to inadequate sleep and daytime fatigue.

Stress, anxiety, depression, poor sleep habits, and medical conditions can cause insomnia.

Acute insomnia may last a few nights to a few weeks and is often related to a specific stressor.

Chronic insomnia persists for at least three nights a week for three months or longer and can be caused by various factors.

Medication may be prescribed for short-term insomnia, but it's not a long-term solution due to potential side effects and dependency.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), relaxation techniques, and improving sleep hygiene are non-drug options.

Maintain a regular sleep schedule, create a comfortable sleep environment, limit screen time before bed, and avoid caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime.

Insomnia can affect people of all ages, but it becomes more common with age, especially in older adults.

Yes, consuming heavy meals, caffeine, or alcohol close to bedtime can worsen insomnia.

Yes, insomnia can contribute to or worsen conditions like depression, anxiety, and cardiovascular problems.

Yes, irregular work schedules disrupt the body's natural sleep-wake cycle and can lead to insomnia.

Sleep hygiene refers to habits and practices that promote healthy sleep. Following these guidelines can improve the quality of your sleep.

Yes, adopting a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and stress management can help reduce insomnia symptoms.

Anxiety and racing thoughts can make it difficult to relax and fall asleep, contributing to insomnia.

If insomnia persists for more than a few weeks, negatively impacts daily life, or is accompanied by other health issues, consult a healthcare provider or sleep specialist for evaluation and treatment.