Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, or by waking up too early and not being able to go back to sleep. Insomnia can be short-term (acute insomnia), lasting from a few nights to a few weeks, or long-term (chronic insomnia), lasting for a month or longer. Insomnia can affect people of all ages, but it is more common in adults.
Some common symptoms of insomnia include:
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Waking up during the night and having trouble falling back to sleep
- Waking up too early in the morning
- Feeling tired or groggy during the day
- Having difficulty concentrating or remembering things
- Being irritable or easily frustrated
- Having headaches or feeling unwell
Insomnia can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, anxiety, depression, certain medical conditions, and lifestyle factors such as caffeine intake, irregular sleep schedules, or exposure to electronic screens before bed. Treatment for insomnia typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the disorder, and may include lifestyle changes, relaxation techniques, and medication. If you are experiencing insomnia or sleep-related issues, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and develop an effective treatment plan.