Insomnia is a hugely common sleep disorder. It’s described as the inability to sleep properly or to get to sleep at all. Symptoms include restlessness, sleep interruptions, decreased time asleep, or sometimes complete wakefulness.
Aside from the frustration that insomnia can cause its sufferers, this sleep disorder causes a loss of enthusiasm and energy, memory and concentration problems, and of course sleepiness. Insomnia can cause an increase in accidents, reduced work productivity and the aggravation of psychological and medical conditions.
So what exactly are the main causes of the inability to sleep?
- Emotional distress
Emotional discomfort from any kind of anxiety or anger can easily trigger insomnia. This is especially true for those of us that internalise our emotional issues.
- Substance abuse
Drinking too much coffee, cola or other energy drinks can cause insomnia. Caffeine from these drinks is the main reason. Frequent smokers can also be victims of insomnia due to nicotine. Certain herbal remedies and other medications can also make you prone to becoming an insomniac. A lot of people also think that alcohol can make you feel drowsy. This is true, but when the alcohol breaks down, sudden wakefulness will follow.
- Biological clock
Also known as the circadian rhythm, when your body clock changes, it can damage the amount of sleep you enjoy. Activities like partying into the early hours, too much napping, working nights or jetlag can create a poor sleeping pattern.
- Your surroundings
Extreme temperatures can ruin your sleeping pattern. Noise and bright lights can have the same effect. Sleeping in an unfamiliar place can also be another reason for failing to sleep.
- Health problems
Health conditions such as diabetes, heart failure and thyroid issues can also cause insomnia. Asthma may also make you prone to it because of the shortness of breath. Heartburn, chronic pain, cramps and toothache are other common causes.
Mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety are also possible causes for failure to sleep. Sleep apnea, narcolepsy, and muscle twitches are yet more causes.
- Pre-bedtime activities
Taking part in energetic activities such as exercise or eating large meals right before bed can deprive you of a good night’s sleep. This is because your metabolism is at its most active and it prompts your body to stay awake.
Who is prone to insomnia?
Around 90% of people will have temporary insomnia at some point in their lives. The guidelines to be diagnosed with the chronic form are that the symptoms must cause obvious distress and be present for at least 3 nights per week for at least 3 months. Various studies around the world show that 10%–30% of the population are affected by chronic insomnia.
a. Women are said to be more at risk from insomnia for these reasons:
– Pre-menstrual syndrome with common symptoms of irritability, depression and anxiety, and bloating due to menstruation disturbing our sleeping patterns.
– Menopause changing our sleeping patterns.
– Pregnancy causing discomfort and sleeplessness.
b. The elderly are also prone to insomnia since ageing alters the circadian rhythm.
c. People suffering from depression have lighter sleep compared to those who don’t have depression.
d. Students who are worrying about their exams can easily become insomniacs too.
With this information on the causes of the condition and knowing if you are at risk, you can take steps to fight insomnia.
This website does not provide medical advice. It is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on The Imperfect Cactus website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your GP or dial 999.
Kelly Winter is a self-care guru from Stockport, Cheshire. You can contact her here at www.theimperfectcactus.com, on Instagram (@TheImperfectCactus), Facebook (@TheImperfectCactus) or Twitter (@ImperfectCactus). ‘The Guide to Boosting Self-Esteem‘ is Kelly’s debut self-help guide which is available on Amazon.