Insomnia

Insomnia is when you experience disruptions in how function or feel because you are not sleeping enough, and well enough. This is a fairly common condition, with ~10% of the world population experiencing some form of insomnia. Symptoms can include:

• Feeling unwell or sleepy

• Delayed reflexes

• Memory troubles

• Mood disruptions

• Disruptions in work & social routines

• Slowed thinking or trouble concentrating

• Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early

Causes:

• Genetics & family history

• Different brain activity patterns

• Unrelated medical conditions & mental conditions

• Stress & life changes, including habit changes

Long term complications of chronic insomnia can include depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, & obstructive sleep apnea.

There are many ways to manage insomnia, ranging from medications to lifestyle changes. The simplest way to help manage insomnia is to nurture good sleeping habits by setting a sleep schedule every day, creating a bedtime routine, and avoiding bright lights and electronics around bedtime. If medication is needed, talk to your doctor about obtaining the correct treatment medication for you.