Insomnia is one of the most common sleep complaints. It is estimated that
up to one-third of adults experience symptoms of insomnia, including
difficulty falling asleep, difficulty staying asleep, or waking too early in the
morning.
For some people insomnia occurs occasionally during times of stress. For
others, sleep difficulties become persistent and begin to affect daytime
energy, concentration, mood, and overall health.
Understanding the underlying cause of insomnia is an important step
toward improving sleep.
Symptoms of Insomnia
People with insomnia may experience:
● Difficulty falling asleep at night
● Waking frequently during the night
● Waking earlier than desired and being unable to return to sleep
● Feeling unrefreshed in the morning
● Daytime fatigue or sleepiness
● Difficulty concentrating or focusing
● Irritability or mood changes
Insomnia can vary in severity and may occur occasionally, intermittently,
or on a chronic basis.
Common Causes of Insomnia
Insomnia can develop for many different reasons. In many cases, more
than one factor contributes to sleep disruption.
Stress and Anxiety
Emotional stress, work concerns, or major life changes can make it difficult
for the mind to relax at bedtime.
Poor Sleep Habits
Irregular sleep schedules, excessive screen use before bedtime, or
stimulating activities late at night can interfere with the body’s ability to
transition into sleep.
Medical Conditions
Certain medical issues may disrupt sleep, including:
● Chronic pain
● Gastroesophageal reflux
● Hormonal changes
● Thyroid disorders
Other Sleep Disorders
Insomnia sometimes occurs alongside other sleep disorders such as:
● Obstructive sleep apnea
● Restless legs syndrome
● Circadian rhythm disorders
When another sleep disorder is present, treating that condition can often
improve insomnia symptoms.
How Insomnia Is Evaluated
Evaluation typically begins with a detailed discussion of sleep patterns,
bedtime routines, and daytime symptoms.
In some cases, a sleep diary may be helpful to track sleep timing and
nighttime awakenings. If symptoms suggest another sleep disorder such as
sleep apnea, additional testing may be recommended.
A comprehensive evaluation helps identify whether insomnia is related to
behavioral, medical, or sleep-related factors.
Treatment Options for Insomnia
Treatment is tailored to the underlying causes of sleep difficulty.
Approaches may include:
Improving sleep habits
Adjusting bedtime routines, sleep schedules, and nighttime behaviors can
support more consistent sleep.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I)
CBT-I is considered one of the most effective treatments for chronic
insomnia. It focuses on changing behaviors and thought patterns that
interfere with sleep.
Addressing underlying medical conditions
Treating conditions that disrupt sleep can improve overall sleep quality.
Short-term medication when appropriate
In some cases, medications may be used temporarily to help restore
healthy sleep patterns.
When to Seek Help
You may benefit from evaluation if:
● Difficulty sleeping occurs several nights per week
● Sleep problems persist for more than a few weeks
● Daytime fatigue affects work or daily functioning
● You feel anxious or frustrated about sleep
With the right approach, most people with insomnia can achieve more
consistent and restorative sleep.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are struggling with persistent difficulty sleeping, a consultation can
help identify the factors contributing to insomnia and discuss strategies to
improve sleep quality and daytime energy.