What it is
Short-term insomnia often gets better on its own. Insomnia lasting 3 months or more is called long-term insomnia.
A regular sleep routine and cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) are the most effective treatments. Sleeping pills are only used for short periods.
Common signs
- Difficulty getting to sleep
- Waking several times in the night
- Waking early and not getting back to sleep
- Feeling tired and irritable during the day
- Difficulty concentrating
How it is usually diagnosed
- Questions about sleep habits
- A sleep diary
- Sleep study if another sleep disorder is suspected
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Sleep diaries
- Notes on treatments tried
- Sleep study reports, if done
Questions to ask your doctor
- Could something be causing my insomnia?
- Can I get CBT for insomnia?
- Are any of my medicines affecting my sleep?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Thoughts of harming yourself, or falling asleep while driving: get urgent help, call 112 if in danger
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.