Insomnia is a serious sleeping disorder that affects most adults. It is a disorder where people have trouble sleeping and staying asleep.
Various worldwide studies have shown that up to 50-60% of populations suffer from insomnia. With adults and females being the most affected, it can be difficult to dedicate the day to sleeping when you have other responsibilities.
Therefore, here is all information to know about the different types of insomnia, causes, and easy changes that will help get you back on track.
What are the types of insomnia?
The type of insomnia you have is determined by how many sleepless days you are experiencing. Short-term insomnia is usually caused by several things that may just need a few habitual changes. According to the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS), some of the common causes associated with it are,
- stress, anxiety or depression
- noise
- a room that’s too hot or cold
- uncomfortable beds
- alcohol, caffeine or nicotine
- recreational drugs like cocaine or ecstasy
- jet lag
- shift work
The second type of sleeping disorder is clinical insomnia. According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA), the doctor’s diagnosis criteria for this is,
- Having sleeping difficulties for more than three months.
- If the sleeplessness is causing stress and affecting the everyday functionality of your life.
Now, clinical insomnia also has primary and secondary insomnia. According to Healthline, primary has no cause attached to it and secondary insomnia is caused by some of the following conditions;
- medical conditions that make it harder to sleep, such as arthritis or back pain
- psychological issues, such as anxiety or depression
- substance use
- sleep apnea
- diabetes
Here are simple tips to help you sleep better
Sleep is important for your general wellbeing and sanity. Therefore, if you are still not sure of the severity of your sleeping disorder, take one of the insomnia tests offered by NHS.
Additionally, the UK health authority recommends these changes to help you get your sleeping patterns back on track.
- go to bed and wake up at the same time every day
- relax at least 1 hour before bed, for example, take a bath or read a book
- make sure your bedroom is dark and quiet – use curtains, blinds, an eye mask or earplugs if needed
- exercise regularly during the day
- make sure your mattress, pillows and covers are comfortable