Insomnia

A persistent difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep despite adequate opportunity and circumstances for sleep, resulting in clinically significant daytime impairment or distress.

Causes

• Psychological and psychiatric disorders affecting sleep regulation

  • Stress

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Sleep-related and behavioral causes

  • Jet lag

  • Shift work

  • Irregular circadian rhythm

  • Poor sleep hygiene

    • Daytime napping

    • Watching television or using electronic devices in bed

    • Irregular sleep schedule

• Substance-related causes

  • Caffeine consumption

  • Nicotine use

  • Alcohol consumption

  • Recreational drugs

• Medical causes

  • Chronic pain

  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

  • Hyperthyroidism

  • Heart failure

  • Chronic respiratory disease

  • Neurological disorders

• Sleep disorder causes

  • Restless legs syndrome

  • Sleep apnea

  • Circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorders

• Medications affecting sleep architecture or circadian regulation

  • Corticosteroids

  • Antidepressants

  • Stimulants

• Other causes

  • Aging-related changes in sleep patterns

  • Menopause-related hormonal changes

  • Environmental factors: Excessive light, noise, or uncomfortable sleeping conditions