Insomnia: Definition, Types, and Causes - Get Help Today - 常规

Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing non-restorative sleep. It's a common problem affecting individuals of all ages, significantly impacting overall well-being and daily functioning.

Insomnia can be classified into two categories:

'Acute Insomnia': This refers to short-term insomnia lasting a few days or weeks. It's often caused by temporary factors like stress, jet lag, changes in sleep schedule, or a traumatic event. Acute insomnia usually resolves on its own without medical intervention.
'Chronic Insomnia': This type of insomnia lasts for a longer duration, typically at least three nights a week for three months or more. Chronic insomnia can have various underlying causes, including medical conditions (such as chronic pain or respiratory problems), mental health disorders (such as anxiety or depression), substance abuse, certain medications, or poor sleep habits.

Insomnia can also be categorized based on the primary cause:

'Primary Insomnia': This refers to insomnia not directly caused by an underlying medical or psychiatric condition. It's often related to factors like stress, lifestyle choices, or poor sleep hygiene.
'Secondary Insomnia': This type of insomnia is caused by an underlying medical or psychiatric condition. Examples include sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, depression, or chronic pain.

Insomnia can have a profound impact on an individual's overall quality of life, leading to daytime fatigue, impaired concentration, mood disturbances, and decreased productivity. It's important to seek medical attention if insomnia persists or significantly affects daily functioning, as it can often be effectively managed through various treatment approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes.