Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, or waking up too early and not being able to go back to sleep. Insomnia can have a negative impact on a person’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
There are many possible causes of insomnia, including stress, anxiety, depression, medical conditions, medication side effects, caffeine, alcohol, and an irregular sleep schedule or environment. It can also be a primary condition, meaning that there is no underlying cause.
There are several ways to treat insomnia, including lifestyle changes, such as practicing good sleep hygiene, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and establishing a regular sleep routine. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medications, such as benzodiazepines and non-benzodiazepine hypnotics, may also be used to treat insomnia.
If you are experiencing insomnia, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan that is appropriate for your individual needs.