Insomnia FAQs

1. What is insomnia?
Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early and not being able to go back to sleep. Even when someone has the chance to sleep, they might not be able to take it due to these disturbances.

2. What causes insomnia?
Insomnia can be caused by a variety of factors including stress, anxiety, depression, changes in sleep habits, physical illnesses, medications, and environmental factors such as noise or light. Lifestyle choices like caffeine consumption or screen time before bed can also contribute.

3. How do I know if I have insomnia?
If you regularly find it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep, wake up frequently during the night, wake up feeling unrefreshed, or experience tiredness and impaired functioning during the day, you may be suffering from insomnia.

4. What are the effects of insomnia on health?
Chronic insomnia can lead to or exacerbate mental health problems like depression and anxiety, increase the risk of physical conditions such as heart disease and diabetes, and impair cognitive function, leading to issues with memory, focus, and decision-making.

5. How can I treat insomnia?
Treatment for insomnia may include behavioural changes, cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), which teaches techniques to address the thoughts and behaviours that cause or worsen sleep problems, and, in some cases, medication. Improving sleep hygiene, such as setting a consistent sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and avoiding caffeine and screens before bed, is also recommended.

6. Are sleeping pills safe for treating insomnia?
While sleeping pills can be effective for short-term relief of insomnia, they are typically not recommended for long-term use due to potential side effects and dependency issues. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider to understand the benefits and risks.

7. Can psychological techniques help me manage my insomnia?
Yes, psychological strategies such as relaxation techniques, mindfulness meditation, and biofeedback can help manage insomnia. These techniques reduce stress and body tension, creating a more conducive state for sleep.

8. How long does insomnia last?
Insomnia can be transient (short term), intermittent, or chronic. Transient insomnia lasts for a few days, intermittent insomnia occurs from time to time, and chronic insomnia happens most nights and lasts a month or more.

9. What is sleep hygiene?
Sleep hygiene refers to the practices, habits, and environmental factors that are critically important for quality sleep. Good sleep hygiene includes maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a bedtime routine that signals the brain it's time to sleep, and optimizing your bedroom environment (dark, quiet, and cool).

10. When should I see a psychologist or other health professional about my insomnia?
If insomnia is making it hard for you to function during the day, it's a good idea to seek professional help. This is particularly important if you feel depressed, anxious, or if your sleep problems persist for longer than a few weeks.