What Is Insomnia?
Insomnia
is a common medical condition that is estimated
to affect 10% of American adults. Insomnia can take many different
forms: difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, waking up too early, or waking
up not feeling refreshed. In a survey by the National Sleep Foundation, 54% of adults
said they've experienced at least one symptom of insomnia at least a few times a week.
Also, another survey that they conducted in 2008 found that many people say that their
symptoms affect their daily activities at least a few days a week. In fact:
- 73% found that trouble falling or staying asleep impacts their mood.
- 63% found that trouble falling or staying asleep impacts their concentration.
- 42% found that trouble falling or staying asleep impacts their family relationships.
- 36% found that trouble falling or staying asleep impacts their job performance.
The good news is, insomnia can be overcome. An important step towards sleeping better
is to determine the possible causes of your insomnia. Factors such
as emotional stress,
your health,
lifestyle ,
or even your sleep environment
could be at the root of your problem. Or, you might even have a
sleep disorder preventing
you from getting high-quality sleep. No matter what the cause, there are solutions.
What type of insomnia do you have?
Falling asleep might be only half of your battle. Read more about the
types of insomnia.
Also, talk to your doctor; he or she can help uncover
the causes and propose solutions that can work for you.
Next: Causes of Insomnia