Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder, characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking too early, leading to daytime impairment.
Diagnostic criteria (DSM-5): Clinical insomnia requires all of the following: • Sleep problems occur at least 3 nights per week • The condition has persisted for more than 3 months (chronic insomnia) • Adequate sleep opportunity and environment exist, yet sleep remains elusive • Causes significant daytime dysfunction (fatigue, concentration issues, mood changes)
Acute insomnia: Triggered by stress, jet lag, or environmental changes, typically lasting less than 3 months. Most cases resolve on their own without intervention.
Common misconceptions: • "I only need 5 hours of sleep": Genuinely rare. More often, it reflects built-up tolerance to sleep deprivation rather than a true reduced need. • "Insomnia always requires medication": Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is considered the first-line treatment for chronic insomnia, with better long-term outcomes than medication.
When to see a doctor: If sleep problems persist for more than 3 months and noticeably affect work, learning, or relationships, consult a doctor or sleep specialist.