Difficulty falling asleep
Overview
Difficulty falling asleep, also known as sleep onset insomnia, is the inability to fall asleep within a reasonable time after going to bed. This common sleep disorder can cause prolonged periods of lying awake at night, leading to frustration and daytime fatigue.
Common Causes
This issue often stems from stress, anxiety, or an overactive mind that makes it hard to wind down at bedtime. Common lifestyle factors include consuming caffeine late in the day, irregular sleep schedules, excessive screen time before bed, or eating large meals close to bedtime. Physical discomfort from your sleeping environment, lack of regular exercise, or taking daytime naps can also interfere with your body's natural ability to fall asleep at night.
Severity Levels
Mild: You occasionally take 30-60 minutes to fall asleep, happening a few times per month. This may occur during stressful periods or changes in routine, but doesn't significantly impact your daily functioning.
Moderate: You regularly take over an hour to fall asleep several nights per week. This pattern persists for weeks or months and begins to affect your energy levels, mood, and concentration during the day.
Severe: You consistently struggle to fall asleep for 2+ hours most nights, often lying awake until very late or early morning hours. This chronic pattern significantly impairs your work performance, relationships, and overall quality of life, and may require professional intervention.
Medical Attention
Seek medical help if you consistently take more than 30 minutes to fall asleep for several weeks, or if sleep difficulties significantly impact your daily functioning, work, or relationships. Contact a healthcare provider if you experience persistent daytime fatigue, mood changes, or if over-the-counter sleep aids aren't helping. It's also important to consult a doctor if your sleep problems worsen or if you develop other concerning symptoms alongside your sleep difficulties.
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