Insomnia
Description
Insomnia is a common sleep problem where you have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early and not feeling rested in the morning. This can lead to daytime tiredness, low energy, and difficulty concentrating or mood changes. It can be caused by stress, worry, an irregular sleep routine, caffeine or alcohol, medications, or medical conditions, and in India factors like shift work or noisy surroundings can contribute. It is not a sign of personal failing, and many people experience it at some point; if it lasts for several weeks and affects daily life, you should talk with a healthcare provider. In India, you can seek evaluation at a Primary Health Centre or district hospital, or ask for a referral to a sleep clinic if available, and follow the guidance of your local doctor.
Common Symptoms
Difficulty falling asleep
Frequent awakenings during the night
Waking up too early and not being able to go back to sleep
Non-refreshing sleep or feeling unrefreshed upon waking
Daytime fatigue or sleepiness
Irritability, mood disturbances, or anxiety
Difficulty concentrating or memory problems
If these symptoms are persistent and affect daily life, consult a qualified doctor or healthcare provider in India.
Causes
Common causes include stress, anxiety, and mood disorders, which many people in India face from work, exams, and finances.
Poor sleep hygiene such as late-night screen time, caffeine, nicotine, or heavy meals, plus noisy, hot, or crowded sleeping environments, can disrupt sleep at night.
Medical or hormonal conditions like chronic pain, thyroid disorders, asthma/respiratory issues, pregnancy, or menopause can raise the risk of insomnia.
Circadian disruptions from shift work, long commutes, or irregular schedules are common in Indian cities and can disturb sleep patterns.
Substance use (tobacco, alcohol) and certain medicines, along with insomnia that accompanies depression or anxiety, are frequent contributors; if persistent, consult a doctor or local healthcare provider in India.
Treatment Options
Insomnia is commonly treated with sleep-hygiene basics and lifestyle changes: regular bed and wake times, limiting caffeine and large meals before bed, daytime activity, and creating a comfortable sleep environment.
Behaviors like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), stimulus control, sleep restriction, and relaxation techniques are often recommended and can be accessed through sleep clinics or mental health professionals in India.
Medications may be used for short-term relief under a doctor's supervision; avoid self-medicating and follow a qualified clinician’s guidance for any prescription sleep aids.
Treat any underlying conditions (anxiety, depression, pain, or sleep apnea) and consider a sleep study at larger hospitals or government facilities if sleep apnea or other disorders are suspected.
If insomnia persists, consult a qualified doctor at a primary health centre or district/government hospital in India for a personalized plan; do not self-diagnose or change treatments without medical advice.