Understanding Insomnia

Insomnia, a prevalent sleep disorder affecting a substantial portion of the population, goes beyond occasional sleep disruptions. Common symptoms include feeling unrefreshed upon waking, early morning awakening, and difficulty initiating sleep.

Estimates from the American Psychiatric Association suggest that six to eight percent of adults experience severe enough symptoms for an insomnia disorder diagnosis. The relationship between insomnia and mental health is intricate, with a bidirectional connection to conditions like anxiety and depression, leading to a chronic cycle of persistent insomnia.

Various anxiety and depressive disorders, such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), contribute to insomnia to varying extents. Recognizable symptoms encompass challenges in falling asleep, nocturnal awakenings, daytime fatigue, irritability, difficulties in concentration, and persistent concerns about sleep. Identifying these symptoms is crucial for understanding and addressing the complexity of insomnia.