🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 98 (from laksa087)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa098.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical, ml_categories_json AS ml_categories_json, ml_types_json AS ml_types_json, ml_intent_types_json AS ml_intent_types_json, meta_language AS meta_language, attrs_author AS attrs_author, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(attrs_publish_time), 0) AS attrs_publish_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(attrs_original_publish_time), 0) AS attrs_original_publish_time, ifNull(attrs_is_republished, 0) AS attrs_is_republished, ifNull(attrs_nr_words, 0) AS attrs_nr_words, ifNull(attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words, 0) AS attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words, ifNull(body_ext_links_number, 0) AS body_ext_links_number, ifNull(body_int_links_number, 0) AS body_int_links_number, ifNull(meta_nofollow, 0) AS meta_nofollow, ifNull(meta_noarchive, 0) AS meta_noarchive, ifNull(props_was_rendered, 0) AS props_was_rendered, ifNull(src_redirect, \'\') AS src_redirect, ifNull(download_time_msec, 0) AS download_time_msec, ifNull(download_ttfb_msec, 0) AS download_ttfb_msec, ifNull(download_size, 0) AS download_size FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.healthline.com/health/types-of-insomnia\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.healthline.com/health/types-of-insomnia\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/types-of-insomnia","crawl_time":1775066248,"first_indexed_time":1556960526,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,healthline!www,\/health\/types-of-insomnia s443","src_root_hash":"11478817528691466898","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Types of Insomnia: How to Tell Them Apart and How to Treat Them","meta_descriptions":["There are different types of insomnia, and all of them can interfere with your ability to function during the day. Left untreated, insomnia can increase your risk of depression and other serious conditions."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Insomnia\nis a sleep disorder that makes it hard to fall or stay asleep. It leads to daytime sleepiness and a lack of feeling rested when you wake up.\nStress\n,\nmenopause\n, and certain physical and mental health conditions are common causes of insomnia.\nEach type of insomnia is characterized by its duration, effects on sleep, and underlying causes.\nAcute insomnia\nAcute insomnia is short-term insomnia that typically lasts\n3 to 14 days\n. It’s the most common type of insomnia, with up to 30 percent of the population experiencing it annually.\nAcute insomnia is also referred to as adjustment insomnia because it typically occurs when you experience a stressful event, such as the death of a loved one or starting a new job.\nAlong with stress, acute insomnia can also be caused by:\nenvironmental factors that disrupt your sleep, such as noise or light\nsleeping in an unfamiliar bed or surroundings, such as a hotel or new home\nphysical discomfort, such as pain or being unable to assume a comfortable position\ncertain medications\nillness\njet lag\nChronic insomnia\nInsomnia is considered chronic if you have trouble sleeping for at least 3 days per week for at least 3 months. It occurs in around\n10 percent\nof the population.\nChronic insomnia\ncan be\nprimary or secondary\n. Primary chronic insomnia, which is also called idiopathic insomnia, doesn’t have an obvious cause or underlying medical condition — it develops on its own.\nSecondary insomnia, also called comorbid insomnia, is more common. It’s chronic insomnia that occurs with another condition, such as\nsleep apnea\n.\nchronic medical conditions, such as:\ndiabetes\nParkinson’s disease\nhyperthyroidism\nobstructive\nand\ncentral sleep apnea\nmental health conditions, such as:\ndepression\nanxiety\nattention deficit hyperactivity disorder\npost-traumatic stress disorder\nmedications\n, including:\nchemotherapy\ndrugs\nantidepressants\nbeta-blockers\ncaffeine\nand other stimulants, such as:\nalcohol\nnicotine\nother drugs\nlifestyle factors, including:\nfrequent travel and jet lag\nrotating shift work\nnapping\nOnset insomnia\nOnset insomnia involves having trouble initiating sleep. This type of insomnia can be short-term or chronic.\nAny of the causes of acute and chronic insomnia can make it difficult to fall asleep.\nPsychological or psychiatric conditions\nare the most common causes, including stress, anxiety, or depression.\nCaffeine and other stimulants can also prevent you from falling asleep.\nMaintenance insomnia\nMaintenance insomnia is difficulty staying asleep or waking up too early and having trouble getting back to sleep.\nThis type of insomnia causes you to worry about not being able to fall back asleep and not getting enough sleep. This interferes with sleep further, creating a vicious cycle.\nMaintenance insomnia can be caused by mental health conditions, such as depression. Other medical conditions that can cause you to wake up include:\ngastroesophageal reflux disease\nsleep apnea\nasthma\nand other respiratory conditions\nrestless leg syndrome\nperiodic limb movement disorder\nBehavioral insomnia of childhood\nBehavioral insomnia of childhood (BIC) affects up to\n30 percent\nof children. It’s divided into three subtypes:\nBIC sleep-onset:\nThis type results from special conditions at bedtime, such as learning to go to sleep by being rocked or having a parent nearby as a child falls asleep.\nBIC limit-setting:\nThis type involves a child’s refusal to go to bed and repeated attempts to put off going to sleep. Examples of this behavior are asking for a drink, to go to the bathroom, or for a parent to read them another story. A child may also refuse to go back to sleep after they wake up.\nBIC combined type:\nThis is a combination of sleep-onset and limit-setting BIC.\nBIC can usually be resolved with a few behavioral changes, such as creating a healthy sleep routine or learning self-soothing or relaxation techniques.\nSee a doctor if insomnia is making it hard for you to function during the day or if it lasts more than a couple of weeks. A doctor can help determine the cause of your insomnia and the most effective way to treat it.\nHow is insomnia diagnosed?\nDiagnosing insomnia may include a\nphysical examination\nand a review of your medical history to check for signs of an underlying condition.\nYou may also be asked to track your sleep patterns and symptoms in a sleep diary. A doctor may refer you for a\nsleep study\nto check for other sleep disorders.\nWhat are the risks and side effects of insomnia?\nInsomnia can cause a number of risks and side effects that affect your mental and physical health and impact your ability to function.\ndecreased performance at work or school\nincreased risk of accidents\nincreased risk of depression and other mental health conditions\nincreased risk\nof chronic medical conditions, such as\nheart disease\nand metabolic syndrome\nHow do you treat insomnia?\nTreatment for insomnia varies depending on the cause.\nTreatment for chronic insomnia may require addressing any underlying condition that’s causing your insomnia. A doctor may recommend cognitive\nbehavioral therapy\nfor insomnia (CBT-I), which is now the\nfirst-line treatment\nfor insomnia.\nOverall, it’s important to learn how to reduce your sleep-related anxiety and any negative behaviors around sleep.\nEach of the different types of insomnia can interfere with your ability to function during the day.\nAcute, chronic, onset, maintenance, and behavioral insomnia of childhood are the types of insomnia. Each is associated with sleeping difficulty.\nThe type that you might have may depend on the cause, its duration, and how it’s affecting your sleep. See a doctor if your insomnia is affecting your daily life for more than a couple of weeks.\nLeft untreated, chronic insomnia can increase your risk of depression and other serious conditions.","attrs_markdown":"- Health Conditions\n  Health Conditions\n  \n  [All](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/directory\/topics)\n  \n  - [Breast Cancer](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/breast-cancer)\n  - [Cancer Care](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/cancer-care)\n  - [Caregiving for Alzheimer's Disease](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/alzheimers-disease)\n  - [Chronic Kidney Disease](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/ckd)\n  - [Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/copd)\n  - [Digestive Health](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/digestive-health)\n  - [Eye Health](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/eye-health)\n  - [Heart Health](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/heart-health)\n  - [Menopause](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/menopause)\n  - [Mental Health](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/mental-health)\n  - 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Connect with us for all things health.\n\nSubscribe\n\nExplore more in\n\n- Treatment\n- Types\n- Prognosis\n- Symptoms\n- Diagnosis\n- Causes & Risk Factors\n- Management\n- Diet\n- Related Conditions\n- Complications\n\nInsomnia\n\n#### Related Hubs\n[![Sleep Health](https:\/\/media.post.rvohealth.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Sleep-health.png)Sleep Health Routines and tips for healthier sleep](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/sleep)\n\n[![Sleep Disorders](https:\/\/media.post.rvohealth.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Sleep-health-sleep-disorders.png)Sleep Disorders Here's all you need to know about sleep disorders, irregular sleep schedules, insomnia, when to see a specialist, and more.](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/sleep\/disorders)\n#### Related Topics\n- ### Treatment\n  Treatment\n  \n  #### Related Hub\n  [![Medication & Treatments](https:\/\/media.post.rvohealth.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Sleep-health-medication.png)Medication & Treatments A guide to medications and treatments for sleep management](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/sleep\/treatment)\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Treatment](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/sleep\/how-to-cure-insomnia-in-12-minutes)\n  - [Treatment](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia-treatments)\n  - [Chronic](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/chronic-insomnia)\n  - [Specialists](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia-doctors)\n- ### Types\n  Types\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Types](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/types-of-insomnia)\n  - [Paradoxical Insomnia](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia\/paradoxical-insomnia)\n  - [Sporadic Fatal](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia\/sporadic-fatal-insomnia)\n  - [Middle](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia\/middle-insomnia)\n- ### Prognosis\n  Prognosis\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Outlook](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia\/infographic-facts-stats-on-insomnia)\n- ### Symptoms\n  Symptoms\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Effects on the Body](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia-concerns)\n  - [Difficulty Sleeping](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/sleeping-difficulty)\n- ### Diagnosis\n  Diagnosis\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Diagnosis](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia\/do-i-have-insomnia)\n  - [Waking Up Too Early](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/waking-up-too-early)\n  - [Typical Time to Fall Asleep](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/healthy-sleep\/how-long-does-it-take-to-fall-asleep)\n  - [Light Sleepers](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/light-sleeper)\n  - [In Men](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia-in-men)\n- ### Causes & Risk Factors\n  Causes & Risk Factors\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Causes and Risk Factors](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia-causes)\n  - [After Surgery](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia-after-surgery)\n  - [Vaccines](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/vaccinations\/can-vaccines-cause-insomnia)\n  - [Hormones](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia\/hormonal-insomnia-symptoms)\n  - [Anxiety-Induced](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/anxiety-insomnia)\n  - [Dehydration](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia\/dehydration-insomnia-symptoms)\n  - [In Teenagers](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia\/insomnia-in-teens)\n  - [Neurological Conditions](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia\/insomnia-neurological-causes)\n  - [Genetics](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/is-insomnia-genetic)\n  - [In Women](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia\/causes-of-insomnia-in-females)\n- ### Management\n  Management\n  \n  #### Related Hub\n  [![Tools for Sleep](https:\/\/media.post.rvohealth.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Sleep-health-better-tools-for-better-sleep.png)Tools for Sleep Products, apps, and more to help you sleep](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/sleep\/sleep-tools)\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Taking Atihistamines](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/healthy-sleep\/antihistamine-for-sleep)\n  - [Noises for Sleep](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/pink-noise-sleep)\n  - [Postpartum](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/postpartum-insomnia)\n  - [Talking with a Doctor](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia\/insomnia-doctors-appointment-tips)\n  - [Best Weighted Blankets](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/choose-right-size-weighted-blanket)\n- ### Diet\n  Diet\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Drinks to Help Sleep](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/drinks-that-help-you-sleep)\n- ### Related Conditions\n  Related Conditions\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Menopause-Related Insomnia](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/menopause\/menopause-and-insomnia)\n  - [PMS Insomnia](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia\/pms-insomnia)\n  - [High Blood Pressure](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/high-blood-pressure\/can-high-blood-pressure-cause-insomnia)\n  - [OCD](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/ocd\/ocd-and-insomnia)\n  - [Sleep Apnea](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia-vs-sleep-apnea)\n- ### Complications\n  Complications\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Heart Health](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia\/how-insomnia-affects-your-heart)\n\n# Different Types of Insomnia Explained\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/post.healthline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/Thomas-Johnson-500x500-Bio1.png?w=105&h=105)\n\n[Medically reviewed]() by [Thomas Johnson, PA-C]() — Written by [Adrienne Santos-Longhurst]() —  [Updated on September 11, 2024]()\n\n- [Types](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/types-of-insomnia#types)\n- [When to see a doctor](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/types-of-insomnia#when-to-see-a-doctor)\n- [FAQ](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/types-of-insomnia#faq)\n- [Takeaway](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/types-of-insomnia#takeaway)\n\n### Key takeaways\n- Types of insomnia include onset insomnia (trouble falling asleep), maintenance insomnia (trouble staying asleep), and behavioral insomnia of childhood. Insomnia may be acute or chronic.\n- Acute insomnia is short-term and often related to stress or changes in your environment, while chronic insomnia lasts for at least 3 months and may be a result of underlying health conditions or medications.\n- If insomnia is affecting your daily life for more than a couple of weeks, it’s a good idea to get medical advice to determine the cause and find the most effective treatment, as untreated chronic insomnia can lead to other health issues.\n\n[Insomnia](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia-concerns) is a sleep disorder that makes it hard to fall or stay asleep. It leads to daytime sleepiness and a lack of feeling rested when you wake up.\n\nApproximately [10 to 15 percent](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK526136\/) of the general population experiences insomnia, but it’s considerably more common in [post and perimenopausal people](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/menopause\/menopause-and-insomnia) and [older adults](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/sleep\/sleep-disorders-in-the-elderly). It can last a few days or weeks or continue long term.\n\n[Stress](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/stress), [menopause](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/menopause), and certain physical and mental health conditions are common causes of insomnia.\n\n## [Types of insomnia]()\nEach type of insomnia is characterized by its duration, effects on sleep, and underlying causes.\n\n### Acute insomnia\nAcute insomnia is short-term insomnia that typically lasts [3 to 14 days](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7071368\/). It’s the most common type of insomnia, with up to 30 percent of the population experiencing it annually.\n\nAcute insomnia is also referred to as adjustment insomnia because it typically occurs when you experience a stressful event, such as the death of a loved one or starting a new job.\n\nAlong with stress, acute insomnia can also be caused by:\n\n- environmental factors that disrupt your sleep, such as noise or light\n- sleeping in an unfamiliar bed or surroundings, such as a hotel or new home\n- physical discomfort, such as pain or being unable to assume a comfortable position\n- certain medications\n- illness\n- [jet lag](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/jet-lag)\n### Chronic insomnia\nInsomnia is considered chronic if you have trouble sleeping for at least 3 days per week for at least 3 months. It occurs in around [10 percent](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7071368\/) of the population.\n\n[Chronic insomnia](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/chronic-insomnia) can be [primary or secondary](https:\/\/www.dukehealth.org\/treatments\/sleep-disorders\/insomnia). Primary chronic insomnia, which is also called idiopathic insomnia, doesn’t have an obvious cause or underlying medical condition — it develops on its own.\n\nSecondary insomnia, also called comorbid insomnia, is more common. It’s chronic insomnia that occurs with another condition, such as [sleep apnea](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia-vs-sleep-apnea).\n\nChronic insomnia is [commonly associated with](https:\/\/sleepeducation.org\/sleep-disorders\/insomnia\/):\n\n- chronic medical conditions, such as:\n  - [diabetes](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/diabetes)\n  - [Parkinson’s disease](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/parkinsons)\n  - [hyperthyroidism](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/hyperthyroidism)\n  - [obstructive](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/sleep\/obstructive-sleep-apnea) and [central sleep apnea](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/sleep\/central-sleep-apnea)\n- mental health conditions, such as:\n  - [depression](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia\/treating-insomnia-and-depression)\n  - [anxiety](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/anxiety-insomnia)\n  - [attention deficit hyperactivity disorder](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/adhd)\n  - [post-traumatic stress disorder](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/shell-shock-ptsd)\n- [medications](https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/full\/10.1111\/jsr.13075)\n  , including:\n  - [chemotherapy](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/chemotherapy) drugs\n  - [antidepressants](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/depression\/medication-list)\n  - [beta-blockers](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/beta-blockers-for-anxiety)\n- [caffeine](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/caffeine-side-effects) and other stimulants, such as:\n  - [alcohol](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/alcohol\/alcohol-insomnia)\n  - [nicotine](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/nicotine-and-related-disorders)\n  - other drugs\n- lifestyle factors, including:\n  - frequent travel and jet lag\n  - rotating shift work\n  - [napping](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/guide-to-power-naps)\n### Onset insomnia\nOnset insomnia involves having trouble initiating sleep. This type of insomnia can be short-term or chronic.\n\nAny of the causes of acute and chronic insomnia can make it difficult to fall asleep. [Psychological or psychiatric conditions](https:\/\/academic.oup.com\/milmed\/article\/186\/Supplement_1\/246\/6119496) are the most common causes, including stress, anxiety, or depression.\n\nAccording to a [2009 study](https:\/\/www.e-jsm.org\/journal\/view.php?number=97), people with chronic onset insomnia often have another sleep disorder, such as [restless leg syndrome](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/restless-leg-syndrome) or [periodic limb movement disorder](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/sleep-disorder-periodic-limb-movement).\n\nCaffeine and other stimulants can also prevent you from falling asleep.\n\n### Maintenance insomnia\nMaintenance insomnia is difficulty staying asleep or waking up too early and having trouble getting back to sleep.\n\nThis type of insomnia causes you to worry about not being able to fall back asleep and not getting enough sleep. This interferes with sleep further, creating a vicious cycle.\n\nMaintenance insomnia can be caused by mental health conditions, such as depression. Other medical conditions that can cause you to wake up include:\n\n- [gastroesophageal reflux disease](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/gerd\/facts-statistics-infographic)\n- sleep apnea\n- [asthma](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/asthma\/how-to-sleep-with-asthma-positions) and other respiratory conditions\n- restless leg syndrome\n- [periodic limb movement disorder](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/sleep-disorder-periodic-limb-movement)\n### Behavioral insomnia of childhood\nBehavioral insomnia of childhood (BIC) affects up to [30 percent](https:\/\/www.thoracic.org\/patients\/patient-resources\/resources\/behavioral-insomnia-childhood.pdf) of children. It’s divided into three subtypes:\n\n- **BIC sleep-onset:** This type results from special conditions at bedtime, such as learning to go to sleep by being rocked or having a parent nearby as a child falls asleep.\n- **BIC limit-setting:** This type involves a child’s refusal to go to bed and repeated attempts to put off going to sleep. Examples of this behavior are asking for a drink, to go to the bathroom, or for a parent to read them another story. A child may also refuse to go back to sleep after they wake up.\n- **BIC combined type:** This is a combination of sleep-onset and limit-setting BIC.\n\nBIC can usually be resolved with a few behavioral changes, such as creating a healthy sleep routine or learning self-soothing or relaxation techniques.\n\n## [When to see a doctor for insomnia]()\nSee a doctor if insomnia is making it hard for you to function during the day or if it lasts more than a couple of weeks. A doctor can help determine the cause of your insomnia and the most effective way to treat it.\n\n## [Frequently asked questions]()\n### How is insomnia diagnosed?\nDiagnosing insomnia may include a [physical examination](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/physical-examination) and a review of your medical history to check for signs of an underlying condition.\n\nYou may also be asked to track your sleep patterns and symptoms in a sleep diary. A doctor may refer you for a [sleep study](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/polysomnography) to check for other sleep disorders.\n\n### What are the risks and side effects of insomnia?\nInsomnia can cause a number of risks and side effects that affect your mental and physical health and impact your ability to function.\n\n[Risks and side effects](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK19961\/) of insomnia include:\n\n- decreased performance at work or school\n- increased risk of accidents\n- increased risk of depression and other mental health conditions\n- [increased risk](https:\/\/pdf.sciencedirectassets.com\/273577\/1-s2.0-S1556407X22X00040\/1-s2.0-S1556407X22000224\/am.pdf?X-Amz-Security-Token=IQoJb3JpZ2luX2VjEDgaCXVzLWVhc3QtMSJIMEYCIQD215BPKE0GQK5EdAVMKtiN19%2BtNMGCShfcMn7vP%2FHw%2BwIhAKuPP1WSvRomgClS3efyfei9TJrEJWOl%2F0yHQ2YUtQlKKrIFCGEQBRoMMDU5MDAzNTQ2ODY1IgyYDtqwu7wUZQ7590sqjwX7LlY6QfIosEwi04eeVqihZj679H11Icnro9ycQKgZK2Nxv03J0TkV%2FJpP2qtVuDMKzpUtee2QEzkTkhycMOBSsRgXlSUWR1PsS0TSqr6pJzz2N3q2WQJont0Iy9sKoPsO%2B4MxfZNNZJYec0Oa9h%2Fu453%2FuhPLl1KJ8616b%2FnLAXSOBWsOR8lrcV7DjDzBDnMjie0vyv6lb4nm6Yzj0vouDxWzSrLhsqBf1AQLqcM53bRQ3XcunFZJWxVus6Y11vH6n2wN9%2Fx5%2BweDqH0Dd%2BFZ0KVa%2BxUoevmrrNK90bc0c2HhbRAS8xlMorsFn4SrMBOW%2BVC4eSHmJyoNsmdJzGpfLmluMigZQ1ZaWbg0xl8vQT%2B8TSEYI8%2Bpyf5WQnjrs%2FFEl3ZJejr%2Fa6qT0zNPILdHZCMhuG7eGOsmrjZVzyVYOZl9afuHjZ%2FVaZkbq1NZVDrqFbrH1K0OEaWEu%2BJ6t%2B6M4PR9R8PndPuYaMwO9TsOp8H8R0m6BkwcO6tkqLv4gwdGDjghz0AIersnh4jFhzqDBvHG36jF%2BKWUI5qQXjyJ%2FLXVAGBFELyo0k4BXptT59fZaVQ1E%2Bitz9sJE2rDlS3XE7Q6P%2F2Q%2FVRuKvTsLjxVn5txrnO%2FJTh%2Bbj25PgNmjGoP%2FBvVvOXGCR4R2sRGmvVhIDABeI5rUnaUHykaSeXHMmhBqr20lPWHfW%2B09blBfefR0tlRWUTTsZ%2F4uJ4rb2DZrdhPBruzMiAzCrJ2GfF0Iw4xHtCq7e2XofhCpIkk2Yi63TRd6ECWs5U1RxTlhO9Y%2F47RO94WkjsfGa2RXev3M09zC058B5LraCRr9hc4irkqIsj1ZeJXjCwojGbj%2F%2BfwiiupxuqoXmGLxkDWXyFjMMGy%2FLYGOrABQ%2BDFSkboBscRbgg48oE%2Bv9cUl71yV6baJab07vD3UUqkWrTPj9pY6nwfHpZ2ba1XyqWsMZWWTuWYHPZXatBnpGV8%2BwAfZPtArEG1ksDZx2F1bQHMjIBPPq6BwhSTnOSsh9Y6zJw8ZtA4BmEhoX6YFG8FKw%2Bt7jOwH3sz1ZCkLfCFXB6KYAC6WAms3VHLSa04xZbmqBtzlwQPJDoiWSefKHCKyRzURmkJRVIznSWqshs%3D&X-Amz-Algorithm=AWS4-HMAC-SHA256&X-Amz-Date=20240909T165152Z&X-Amz-SignedHeaders=host&X-Amz-Expires=300&X-Amz-Credential=ASIAQ3PHCVTYQGGSZBZU%2F20240909%2Fus-east-1%2Fs3%2Faws4_request&X-Amz-Signature=3dee1567258554c280caf888e48cd44a155efe00ede5c0ec7b00203305917a60&hash=23711fe3bfa91e4e9c466171b25bd989e32264a0710497565768cd3915dfeda7&host=68042c943591013ac2b2430a89b270f6af2c76d8dfd086a07176afe7c76c2c61&pii=S1556407X22000224&tid=pdf-aed935b1-b185-4584-a04f-21ddc42623bf&sid=73a54de057c22148492a2bc216254953adeegxrqa&type=client) of chronic medical conditions, such as [heart disease](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/heart-disease) and metabolic syndrome\n### How do you treat insomnia?\nTreatment for insomnia varies depending on the cause.\n\nYou may be able to treat acute insomnia at home with an over-the-counter sleep aid or by [managing your stress](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/16-ways-relieve-stress-anxiety). Other treatments include [medication and drug management](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC8377300\/).\n\nTreatment for chronic insomnia may require addressing any underlying condition that’s causing your insomnia. A doctor may recommend cognitive [behavioral therapy](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/behavioral-therapy) for insomnia (CBT-I), which is now the [first-line treatment](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC8808745\/) for insomnia.\n\nOverall, it’s important to learn how to reduce your sleep-related anxiety and any negative behaviors around sleep.\n\n## [The takeaway]()\nEach of the different types of insomnia can interfere with your ability to function during the day.\n\nAcute, chronic, onset, maintenance, and behavioral insomnia of childhood are the types of insomnia. Each is associated with sleeping difficulty.\n\nThe type that you might have may depend on the cause, its duration, and how it’s affecting your sleep. See a doctor if your insomnia is affecting your daily life for more than a couple of weeks.\n\nLeft untreated, chronic insomnia can increase your risk of depression and other serious conditions.\n\n### How we reviewed this article:\nSources\n\nHistory\n\nHealthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our [editorial policy](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/about\/process).\n\n- Behavioral insomnia of childhood. (2021).  \n  <https:\/\/www.thoracic.org\/patients\/patient-resources\/resources\/behavioral-insomnia-childhood.pdf>\n- Do D. (2020). Trends in the use of medications with insomnia side effects and the implications for insomnia among U.S. adults.   \n  <https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/full\/10.1111\/jsr.13075>\n- Hansen DA, et al. (2021). Sleep deprivation and sleep-onset insomnia are associated with blunted physiological reactivity to stressors.   \n  <https:\/\/academic.oup.com\/milmed\/article\/186\/Supplement_1\/246\/6119496>\n- Insomnia. (2024).  \n  <https:\/\/www.dukehealth.org\/treatments\/sleep-disorders\/insomnia>\n- Kaur H, et al. (2023). Chronic insomnia.  \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK526136\/>\n- Matsumura A. (2020). What is insomnia?  \n  <https:\/\/sleepeducation.org\/sleep-disorders\/insomnia\/>\n- Morin CM, et al. (2022). Epidemiology of insomnia: Prevalence, course, risk factors, and public health burden.  \n  [https:\/\/pdf.sciencedirectassets.com\/273577\/1-s2.0-S1556407X22X00040\/1-s2.0-S1556407X22000224\/am.pdf?X-Amz-Security-Token=IQoJb3JpZ2luX2VjEDgaCXVzLWVhc3QtMSJIMEYCIQCZ28jgrua3n28a9AWCNNJiEIYrJ%2FzCDQE4iWfGTpnkOAIhANnMitZe7AXpu%2FrP7nFtLOawFfv3LrToo4CvBEcdMM85KrMFCGEQBRoMMDU5MDAzNTQ2ODY1IgyNCjMMWhiSY0RXlnEqkAWAfp2C298uq1h955gfpcmtmqYvRUsv%2BEO9PAdGxR0M0DHHlG55KWAduyYzWuDd7PZEQj1ZuyWTndNy%2FbWSom2czG3VtTPie4X4eVJ6lfkl0kJOi2Q7eTwCWGcMnqjEueCEFQgxWQg8ql7DEICP0nXX%2FCNWyzsPIlQldYcVGWkFKQKO9VySgPiHNhbMOhNzaSrc%2B2euLPCk1%2FnDMpgsOFD7FZ676%2FfDMjwyIpTMcuhRR%2BnQCC5BMl9PI6OrntBqpXGdeFhovO86JW5ykCr11FrZ6YRmYD3ZUlNUeJehXk4kEd8e59DfIrP%2B7VXc%2Bn25nKYdJPoMRBmEgDx5xmr1mYjyDCgE%2B%2F8JHpWcj36L6avKALvOXaL%2BgFRnPLWLb06vvsERXm3zrd9AjaJA5RCh02ZcUZamnsd0u8X%2Bp1FbCkmQWPl9f8XaNJ4CrGLIhxmwVPsd7xyfyQ7KYV53t8SM6NhAcAgAigqV0lTmlZFiLtAH7DdOJlJJtRVOounw1mzFa7SRp3nrdYcc1dFwZ0oL3sjEN7SLcFMCz78%2BJRWqZ1H%2BJtszFgWe7PhBeR0fQJ6DnUcQbEUC9ng5SIQe3kkUPD3SJs5XDasTL3fyD%2B2ftI3a%2BTCnAJp4CgencTpB0RUFs4PvrrdEnV47n5bAfhBDKA8SPwU4wKYeY6J%2Fy%2FzsQt5YJ%2Bk0JdgUcnUgDpkEOuiO5njJ3WLP0aO5i4Vujkebiy95XKRHWEgiMUs6P4hgPe0900SYVpvukxpdCg4YC4GBJD6bK9q1Ttu8HzNltnhgT76RP6c%2Bu7owSkAUkwld2kZ5TneKi3oGlw8EWsj9U8grjynL7MsxG%2FJCC3h%2B7SYLJwutJrCK6fLw2NUZWlSTKFKMPTDrrfy2BjqwAdxmAueElllMSojjH3opzC1Ln1VybFbhRk36rQvUnp%2FLBKTaSNGEXeMb6Vh9grIg1E4kMVLuHsG0Cs6l%2BVlrZQokPGeOleH3qsYsXTFlK6dqYgAFFl4W8PR1f7Htlv6HMGJ2weIL1zierEb5sqAS3hr5hqaj2FMG1ToZ0aKx5w3Bqqy8nuK3lisD7HycaPG7yVGmYYIAPkGIPzwhWUTDSBOaXUeo6afYhpUZ4ukgdhzK\\&X-Amz-Algorithm=AWS4-HMAC-SHA256\\&X-Amz-Date=20240909T165542Z\\&X-Amz-SignedHeaders=host\\&X-Amz-Expires=300\\&X-Amz-Credential=ASIAQ3PHCVTY5GDRBAXY%2F20240909%2Fus-east-1%2Fs3%2Faws4\\_request\\&X-Amz-Signature=12f1b6dd0b17ebf9f6ee09aa37b43f94ef11e315e64b910682f16f1c33e714ca\\&hash=efa9775b4487fb24b56f276ff48c97066533ff98717e3f541a951b8284407f37\\&host=68042c943591013ac2b2430a89b270f6af2c76d8dfd086a07176afe7c76c2c61\\&pii=S1556407X22000224\\&tid=pdf-478763c6-02d8-4f71-9ebe-7e2fa39a386d\\&sid=73a54de057c22148492a2bc216254953adeegxrqa\\&type=client](https:\/\/pdf.sciencedirectassets.com\/273577\/1-s2.0-S1556407X22X00040\/1-s2.0-S1556407X22000224\/am.pdf?X-Amz-Security-Token=IQoJb3JpZ2luX2VjEDgaCXVzLWVhc3QtMSJIMEYCIQCZ28jgrua3n28a9AWCNNJiEIYrJ%2FzCDQE4iWfGTpnkOAIhANnMitZe7AXpu%2FrP7nFtLOawFfv3LrToo4CvBEcdMM85KrMFCGEQBRoMMDU5MDAzNTQ2ODY1IgyNCjMMWhiSY0RXlnEqkAWAfp2C298uq1h955gfpcmtmqYvRUsv%2BEO9PAdGxR0M0DHHlG55KWAduyYzWuDd7PZEQj1ZuyWTndNy%2FbWSom2czG3VtTPie4X4eVJ6lfkl0kJOi2Q7eTwCWGcMnqjEueCEFQgxWQg8ql7DEICP0nXX%2FCNWyzsPIlQldYcVGWkFKQKO9VySgPiHNhbMOhNzaSrc%2B2euLPCk1%2FnDMpgsOFD7FZ676%2FfDMjwyIpTMcuhRR%2BnQCC5BMl9PI6OrntBqpXGdeFhovO86JW5ykCr11FrZ6YRmYD3ZUlNUeJehXk4kEd8e59DfIrP%2B7VXc%2Bn25nKYdJPoMRBmEgDx5xmr1mYjyDCgE%2B%2F8JHpWcj36L6avKALvOXaL%2BgFRnPLWLb06vvsERXm3zrd9AjaJA5RCh02ZcUZamnsd0u8X%2Bp1FbCkmQWPl9f8XaNJ4CrGLIhxmwVPsd7xyfyQ7KYV53t8SM6NhAcAgAigqV0lTmlZFiLtAH7DdOJlJJtRVOounw1mzFa7SRp3nrdYcc1dFwZ0oL3sjEN7SLcFMCz78%2BJRWqZ1H%2BJtszFgWe7PhBeR0fQJ6DnUcQbEUC9ng5SIQe3kkUPD3SJs5XDasTL3fyD%2B2ftI3a%2BTCnAJp4CgencTpB0RUFs4PvrrdEnV47n5bAfhBDKA8SPwU4wKYeY6J%2Fy%2FzsQt5YJ%2Bk0JdgUcnUgDpkEOuiO5njJ3WLP0aO5i4Vujkebiy95XKRHWEgiMUs6P4hgPe0900SYVpvukxpdCg4YC4GBJD6bK9q1Ttu8HzNltnhgT76RP6c%2Bu7owSkAUkwld2kZ5TneKi3oGlw8EWsj9U8grjynL7MsxG%2FJCC3h%2B7SYLJwutJrCK6fLw2NUZWlSTKFKMPTDrrfy2BjqwAdxmAueElllMSojjH3opzC1Ln1VybFbhRk36rQvUnp%2FLBKTaSNGEXeMb6Vh9grIg1E4kMVLuHsG0Cs6l%2BVlrZQokPGeOleH3qsYsXTFlK6dqYgAFFl4W8PR1f7Htlv6HMGJ2weIL1zierEb5sqAS3hr5hqaj2FMG1ToZ0aKx5w3Bqqy8nuK3lisD7HycaPG7yVGmYYIAPkGIPzwhWUTDSBOaXUeo6afYhpUZ4ukgdhzK&X-Amz-Algorithm=AWS4-HMAC-SHA256&X-Amz-Date=20240909T165542Z&X-Amz-SignedHeaders=host&X-Amz-Expires=300&X-Amz-Credential=ASIAQ3PHCVTY5GDRBAXY%2F20240909%2Fus-east-1%2Fs3%2Faws4_request&X-Amz-Signature=12f1b6dd0b17ebf9f6ee09aa37b43f94ef11e315e64b910682f16f1c33e714ca&hash=efa9775b4487fb24b56f276ff48c97066533ff98717e3f541a951b8284407f37&host=68042c943591013ac2b2430a89b270f6af2c76d8dfd086a07176afe7c76c2c61&pii=S1556407X22000224&tid=pdf-478763c6-02d8-4f71-9ebe-7e2fa39a386d&sid=73a54de057c22148492a2bc216254953adeegxrqa&type=client)\n- Muench A, et al. (2022). We know CBT-I works, now what?  \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC8808745\/>\n- Ng L, et al. (2021). Management of insomnia in primary care.  \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC8377300\/>\n- Sleep disorders and sleep deprivation: An unmet public health problem. (n.d.).  \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK19961\/>\n- Vargas I, et al. (2020). Acute and chronic insomnia: What has time and\/or hyperarousal got to do with it?   \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7071368\/>\n\nShare this article\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/post.healthline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/Thomas-Johnson-500x500-Bio1.png?w=105&h=105)\n\n[Medically reviewed]() by [Thomas Johnson, PA-C]() — Written by [Adrienne Santos-Longhurst]() —  [Updated on September 11, 2024]()\n\n## related stories\n- [What Can Cause Insomnia?](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia-causes?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [What Causes Insomnia in Women?](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia\/causes-of-insomnia-in-females?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [What Is Psychophysiological Insomnia and What Can You Do If You Have It?](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/psychophysiological-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Overview of Secondary Insomnia](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia\/secondary-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Understanding the Relationship Between Antidepressants and Insomnia](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/antidepressants-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n\n### Read this next\n- [What Can Cause Insomnia?](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia-causes?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [Insomnia can affect your overall health. Here’s what may be causing it and what you can do about it.](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia-causes?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia-causes?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [What Causes Insomnia in Women?](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia\/causes-of-insomnia-in-females?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [Causes of insomnia in females can include hormonal changes and underlying health conditions. Learn more about why females are at increased risk.](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia\/causes-of-insomnia-in-females?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia\/causes-of-insomnia-in-females?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [What Is Psychophysiological Insomnia and What Can You Do If You Have It?](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/psychophysiological-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  Medically reviewed by [Nicole Washington, DO, MPH](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/medical-team)\n  \n  [Psychophysiological insomnia is a chronic sleep disorder where anxieties about not being able to sleep hampers a person from falling, or staying…](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/psychophysiological-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/psychophysiological-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Overview of Secondary Insomnia](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia\/secondary-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [Learn more about secondary insomnia, which is when you cannot fall asleep or stay asleep at night due to another underlying medical condition.](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia\/secondary-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia\/secondary-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Understanding the Relationship Between Antidepressants and Insomnia](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/antidepressants-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [While some antidepressants are stimulating, others have sedative effects that can promote better sleep, especially in people who experience insomnia.](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/antidepressants-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/antidepressants-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [What Is Rebound Insomnia?](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/what-is-rebound-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [Rebound insomnia typically occurs after discontinuing sleep medications and is characterized by increased wakefulness and inability to fall asleep…](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/what-is-rebound-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/what-is-rebound-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [How Much GABA Should You Take for Insomnia?](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/how-much-gaba-to-take-for-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [GABA may be able to help those with insomnia. Learn how best to try this supplement and how much to take.](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/how-much-gaba-to-take-for-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/how-much-gaba-to-take-for-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Can Taking Creatine Cause Insomnia?](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/creatine-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [Creatine is not generally known to cause insomnia and there's no scientific evidence linking creatine with insomnia or sleep difficulties. Creatine…](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/creatine-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/creatine-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Does Hypnotherapy Work for Insomnia?](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/hypnotherapy-for-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [Though research is mixed, hypnotherapy may help some people sleep. Learn what to expect and what current research shows.](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/hypnotherapy-for-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/hypnotherapy-for-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Is Vitamin D Deficiency Linked to Insomnia?](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/vitamin-d-and-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [Vitamin D may be affecting your sleep. Many people do not get enough of this essential vitamin from their diet or from spending time in the sun. A…](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/vitamin-d-and-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/vitamin-d-and-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n\n© 2026 Healthline Media LLC. All rights reserved. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. [See additional information](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/additional-information).\n\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/about)\n- [Contact Us](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/about\/contact-us)\n- [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/privacy-policy)\n- Privacy Settings\n- [Advertising Policy](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/advertising-policy)\n- [Health Topics](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/directory\/topics)\n\n- [Sitemap](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/sitemap)\n- [Medical Affairs](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/medical-team)\n- [Content Integrity](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/about\/content-integrity)\n- [Newsletters](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/newsletter-signup)\n- © 2026 Healthline Media LLC. All rights reserved. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. [See additional information](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/additional-information).\n\n© 2026 Healthline Media LLC. All rights reserved. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. [See additional information](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/additional-information).\n\n[About](https:\/\/www.healthlinemedia.com\/?utm_source=healthline.com&utm_medium=site&utm_campaign=footer&utm_content=about)[Careers](https:\/\/rvohealth.com\/careers)[Advertise with us](https:\/\/www.healthlinemedia.com\/advertise?utm_source=healthline.com&utm_medium=site&utm_campaign=footer&utm_content=advertise)\n\nOUR BRANDS\n\n[Healthline](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/)[Medical News Today](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/)[Greatist](https:\/\/greatist.com\/)[Psych Central](https:\/\/psychcentral.com\/)[Bezzy](https:\/\/bezzy.com\/)\n\n![](http:\/\/b.scorecardresearch.com\/p?c1=2&c2=38584006&cv=3.9&cj=1&comscorekw=main)","attrs_readable_markdown":"[Insomnia](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia-concerns) is a sleep disorder that makes it hard to fall or stay asleep. It leads to daytime sleepiness and a lack of feeling rested when you wake up.\n\n[Stress](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/stress), [menopause](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/menopause), and certain physical and mental health conditions are common causes of insomnia.\n\nEach type of insomnia is characterized by its duration, effects on sleep, and underlying causes.\n\nAcute insomnia\n\nAcute insomnia is short-term insomnia that typically lasts [3 to 14 days](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7071368\/). It’s the most common type of insomnia, with up to 30 percent of the population experiencing it annually.\n\nAcute insomnia is also referred to as adjustment insomnia because it typically occurs when you experience a stressful event, such as the death of a loved one or starting a new job.\n\nAlong with stress, acute insomnia can also be caused by:\n\n- environmental factors that disrupt your sleep, such as noise or light\n- sleeping in an unfamiliar bed or surroundings, such as a hotel or new home\n- physical discomfort, such as pain or being unable to assume a comfortable position\n- certain medications\n- illness\n- [jet lag](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/jet-lag)\n\nChronic insomnia\n\nInsomnia is considered chronic if you have trouble sleeping for at least 3 days per week for at least 3 months. It occurs in around [10 percent](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7071368\/) of the population.\n\n[Chronic insomnia](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/chronic-insomnia) can be [primary or secondary](https:\/\/www.dukehealth.org\/treatments\/sleep-disorders\/insomnia). Primary chronic insomnia, which is also called idiopathic insomnia, doesn’t have an obvious cause or underlying medical condition — it develops on its own.\n\nSecondary insomnia, also called comorbid insomnia, is more common. It’s chronic insomnia that occurs with another condition, such as [sleep apnea](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia-vs-sleep-apnea).\n\n- chronic medical conditions, such as:\n  - [diabetes](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/diabetes)\n  - [Parkinson’s disease](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/parkinsons)\n  - [hyperthyroidism](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/hyperthyroidism)\n  - [obstructive](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/sleep\/obstructive-sleep-apnea) and [central sleep apnea](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/sleep\/central-sleep-apnea)\n- mental health conditions, such as:\n  - [depression](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/insomnia\/treating-insomnia-and-depression)\n  - [anxiety](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/anxiety-insomnia)\n  - [attention deficit hyperactivity disorder](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/adhd)\n  - [post-traumatic stress disorder](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/shell-shock-ptsd)\n- [medications](https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/full\/10.1111\/jsr.13075)\n  , including:\n  - [chemotherapy](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/chemotherapy) drugs\n  - [antidepressants](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/depression\/medication-list)\n  - [beta-blockers](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/beta-blockers-for-anxiety)\n- [caffeine](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/caffeine-side-effects) and other stimulants, such as:\n  - [alcohol](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/alcohol\/alcohol-insomnia)\n  - [nicotine](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/nicotine-and-related-disorders)\n  - other drugs\n- lifestyle factors, including:\n  - frequent travel and jet lag\n  - rotating shift work\n  - [napping](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/guide-to-power-naps)\n\nOnset insomnia\n\nOnset insomnia involves having trouble initiating sleep. This type of insomnia can be short-term or chronic.\n\nAny of the causes of acute and chronic insomnia can make it difficult to fall asleep. [Psychological or psychiatric conditions](https:\/\/academic.oup.com\/milmed\/article\/186\/Supplement_1\/246\/6119496) are the most common causes, including stress, anxiety, or depression.\n\nCaffeine and other stimulants can also prevent you from falling asleep.\n\nMaintenance insomnia\n\nMaintenance insomnia is difficulty staying asleep or waking up too early and having trouble getting back to sleep.\n\nThis type of insomnia causes you to worry about not being able to fall back asleep and not getting enough sleep. This interferes with sleep further, creating a vicious cycle.\n\nMaintenance insomnia can be caused by mental health conditions, such as depression. Other medical conditions that can cause you to wake up include:\n\n- [gastroesophageal reflux disease](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/gerd\/facts-statistics-infographic)\n- sleep apnea\n- [asthma](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/asthma\/how-to-sleep-with-asthma-positions) and other respiratory conditions\n- restless leg syndrome\n- [periodic limb movement disorder](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/sleep-disorder-periodic-limb-movement)\n\nBehavioral insomnia of childhood\n\nBehavioral insomnia of childhood (BIC) affects up to [30 percent](https:\/\/www.thoracic.org\/patients\/patient-resources\/resources\/behavioral-insomnia-childhood.pdf) of children. It’s divided into three subtypes:\n\n- **BIC sleep-onset:** This type results from special conditions at bedtime, such as learning to go to sleep by being rocked or having a parent nearby as a child falls asleep.\n- **BIC limit-setting:** This type involves a child’s refusal to go to bed and repeated attempts to put off going to sleep. Examples of this behavior are asking for a drink, to go to the bathroom, or for a parent to read them another story. A child may also refuse to go back to sleep after they wake up.\n- **BIC combined type:** This is a combination of sleep-onset and limit-setting BIC.\n\nBIC can usually be resolved with a few behavioral changes, such as creating a healthy sleep routine or learning self-soothing or relaxation techniques.\n\nSee a doctor if insomnia is making it hard for you to function during the day or if it lasts more than a couple of weeks. A doctor can help determine the cause of your insomnia and the most effective way to treat it.\n\nHow is insomnia diagnosed?\n\nDiagnosing insomnia may include a [physical examination](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/physical-examination) and a review of your medical history to check for signs of an underlying condition.\n\nYou may also be asked to track your sleep patterns and symptoms in a sleep diary. A doctor may refer you for a [sleep study](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/polysomnography) to check for other sleep disorders.\n\nWhat are the risks and side effects of insomnia?\n\nInsomnia can cause a number of risks and side effects that affect your mental and physical health and impact your ability to function.\n\n- decreased performance at work or school\n- increased risk of accidents\n- increased risk of depression and other mental health conditions\n- [increased risk](https:\/\/pdf.sciencedirectassets.com\/273577\/1-s2.0-S1556407X22X00040\/1-s2.0-S1556407X22000224\/am.pdf?X-Amz-Security-Token=IQoJb3JpZ2luX2VjEDgaCXVzLWVhc3QtMSJIMEYCIQD215BPKE0GQK5EdAVMKtiN19%2BtNMGCShfcMn7vP%2FHw%2BwIhAKuPP1WSvRomgClS3efyfei9TJrEJWOl%2F0yHQ2YUtQlKKrIFCGEQBRoMMDU5MDAzNTQ2ODY1IgyYDtqwu7wUZQ7590sqjwX7LlY6QfIosEwi04eeVqihZj679H11Icnro9ycQKgZK2Nxv03J0TkV%2FJpP2qtVuDMKzpUtee2QEzkTkhycMOBSsRgXlSUWR1PsS0TSqr6pJzz2N3q2WQJont0Iy9sKoPsO%2B4MxfZNNZJYec0Oa9h%2Fu453%2FuhPLl1KJ8616b%2FnLAXSOBWsOR8lrcV7DjDzBDnMjie0vyv6lb4nm6Yzj0vouDxWzSrLhsqBf1AQLqcM53bRQ3XcunFZJWxVus6Y11vH6n2wN9%2Fx5%2BweDqH0Dd%2BFZ0KVa%2BxUoevmrrNK90bc0c2HhbRAS8xlMorsFn4SrMBOW%2BVC4eSHmJyoNsmdJzGpfLmluMigZQ1ZaWbg0xl8vQT%2B8TSEYI8%2Bpyf5WQnjrs%2FFEl3ZJejr%2Fa6qT0zNPILdHZCMhuG7eGOsmrjZVzyVYOZl9afuHjZ%2FVaZkbq1NZVDrqFbrH1K0OEaWEu%2BJ6t%2B6M4PR9R8PndPuYaMwO9TsOp8H8R0m6BkwcO6tkqLv4gwdGDjghz0AIersnh4jFhzqDBvHG36jF%2BKWUI5qQXjyJ%2FLXVAGBFELyo0k4BXptT59fZaVQ1E%2Bitz9sJE2rDlS3XE7Q6P%2F2Q%2FVRuKvTsLjxVn5txrnO%2FJTh%2Bbj25PgNmjGoP%2FBvVvOXGCR4R2sRGmvVhIDABeI5rUnaUHykaSeXHMmhBqr20lPWHfW%2B09blBfefR0tlRWUTTsZ%2F4uJ4rb2DZrdhPBruzMiAzCrJ2GfF0Iw4xHtCq7e2XofhCpIkk2Yi63TRd6ECWs5U1RxTlhO9Y%2F47RO94WkjsfGa2RXev3M09zC058B5LraCRr9hc4irkqIsj1ZeJXjCwojGbj%2F%2BfwiiupxuqoXmGLxkDWXyFjMMGy%2FLYGOrABQ%2BDFSkboBscRbgg48oE%2Bv9cUl71yV6baJab07vD3UUqkWrTPj9pY6nwfHpZ2ba1XyqWsMZWWTuWYHPZXatBnpGV8%2BwAfZPtArEG1ksDZx2F1bQHMjIBPPq6BwhSTnOSsh9Y6zJw8ZtA4BmEhoX6YFG8FKw%2Bt7jOwH3sz1ZCkLfCFXB6KYAC6WAms3VHLSa04xZbmqBtzlwQPJDoiWSefKHCKyRzURmkJRVIznSWqshs%3D&X-Amz-Algorithm=AWS4-HMAC-SHA256&X-Amz-Date=20240909T165152Z&X-Amz-SignedHeaders=host&X-Amz-Expires=300&X-Amz-Credential=ASIAQ3PHCVTYQGGSZBZU%2F20240909%2Fus-east-1%2Fs3%2Faws4_request&X-Amz-Signature=3dee1567258554c280caf888e48cd44a155efe00ede5c0ec7b00203305917a60&hash=23711fe3bfa91e4e9c466171b25bd989e32264a0710497565768cd3915dfeda7&host=68042c943591013ac2b2430a89b270f6af2c76d8dfd086a07176afe7c76c2c61&pii=S1556407X22000224&tid=pdf-aed935b1-b185-4584-a04f-21ddc42623bf&sid=73a54de057c22148492a2bc216254953adeegxrqa&type=client) of chronic medical conditions, such as [heart disease](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/heart-disease) and metabolic syndrome\n\nHow do you treat insomnia?\n\nTreatment for insomnia varies depending on the cause.\n\nTreatment for chronic insomnia may require addressing any underlying condition that’s causing your insomnia. A doctor may recommend cognitive [behavioral therapy](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/behavioral-therapy) for insomnia (CBT-I), which is now the [first-line treatment](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC8808745\/) for insomnia.\n\nOverall, it’s important to learn how to reduce your sleep-related anxiety and any negative behaviors around sleep.\n\nEach of the different types of insomnia can interfere with your ability to function during the day.\n\nAcute, chronic, onset, maintenance, and behavioral insomnia of childhood are the types of insomnia. Each is associated with sleeping difficulty.\n\nThe type that you might have may depend on the cause, its duration, and how it’s affecting your sleep. See a doctor if your insomnia is affecting your daily life for more than a couple of weeks.\n\nLeft untreated, chronic insomnia can increase your risk of depression and other serious conditions.","meta_canonical":null,"ml_categories_json":"{\"\/Health\":998,\"\/Health\/Mental_Health\":924,\"\/Health\/Mental_Health\/Anxiety_and_Stress\":768}","ml_types_json":"{\"\/Article\":999,\"\/Article\/Tutorial_or_Guide\":600}","ml_intent_types_json":"{\"Informational\":999}","meta_language":"en","attrs_author":"Adrienne Santos-Longhurst","attrs_publish_time":0,"attrs_original_publish_time":1556960526,"attrs_is_republished":0,"attrs_nr_words":"2473","attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words":"929","body_ext_links_number":36,"body_int_links_number":187,"meta_nofollow":0,"meta_noarchive":0,"props_was_rendered":0,"src_redirect":"","download_time_msec":299,"download_ttfb_msec":286,"download_size":90661}

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Types of Insomnia: How to Tell Them Apart and How to Treat Them

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There are different types of insomnia, and all of them can interfere with your ability to function during the day. Left untreated, insomnia can increase your risk of depression and other serious conditions.

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Insomnia is a sleep disorder that makes it hard to fall or stay asleep. It leads to daytime sleepiness and a lack of feeling rested when you wake up. Stress , menopause , and certain physical and mental health conditions are common causes of insomnia. Each type of insomnia is characterized by its duration, effects on sleep, and underlying causes. Acute insomnia Acute insomnia is short-term insomnia that typically lasts 3 to 14 days . It’s the most common type of insomnia, with up to 30 percent of the population experiencing it annually. Acute insomnia is also referred to as adjustment insomnia because it typically occurs when you experience a stressful event, such as the death of a loved one or starting a new job. Along with stress, acute insomnia can also be caused by: environmental factors that disrupt your sleep, such as noise or light sleeping in an unfamiliar bed or surroundings, such as a hotel or new home physical discomfort, such as pain or being unable to assume a comfortable position certain medications illness jet lag Chronic insomnia Insomnia is considered chronic if you have trouble sleeping for at least 3 days per week for at least 3 months. It occurs in around 10 percent of the population. Chronic insomnia can be primary or secondary . Primary chronic insomnia, which is also called idiopathic insomnia, doesn’t have an obvious cause or underlying medical condition — it develops on its own. Secondary insomnia, also called comorbid insomnia, is more common. It’s chronic insomnia that occurs with another condition, such as sleep apnea . chronic medical conditions, such as: diabetes Parkinson’s disease hyperthyroidism obstructive and central sleep apnea mental health conditions, such as: depression anxiety attention deficit hyperactivity disorder post-traumatic stress disorder medications , including: chemotherapy drugs antidepressants beta-blockers caffeine and other stimulants, such as: alcohol nicotine other drugs lifestyle factors, including: frequent travel and jet lag rotating shift work napping Onset insomnia Onset insomnia involves having trouble initiating sleep. This type of insomnia can be short-term or chronic. Any of the causes of acute and chronic insomnia can make it difficult to fall asleep. Psychological or psychiatric conditions are the most common causes, including stress, anxiety, or depression. Caffeine and other stimulants can also prevent you from falling asleep. Maintenance insomnia Maintenance insomnia is difficulty staying asleep or waking up too early and having trouble getting back to sleep. This type of insomnia causes you to worry about not being able to fall back asleep and not getting enough sleep. This interferes with sleep further, creating a vicious cycle. Maintenance insomnia can be caused by mental health conditions, such as depression. Other medical conditions that can cause you to wake up include: gastroesophageal reflux disease sleep apnea asthma and other respiratory conditions restless leg syndrome periodic limb movement disorder Behavioral insomnia of childhood Behavioral insomnia of childhood (BIC) affects up to 30 percent of children. It’s divided into three subtypes: BIC sleep-onset: This type results from special conditions at bedtime, such as learning to go to sleep by being rocked or having a parent nearby as a child falls asleep. BIC limit-setting: This type involves a child’s refusal to go to bed and repeated attempts to put off going to sleep. Examples of this behavior are asking for a drink, to go to the bathroom, or for a parent to read them another story. A child may also refuse to go back to sleep after they wake up. BIC combined type: This is a combination of sleep-onset and limit-setting BIC. BIC can usually be resolved with a few behavioral changes, such as creating a healthy sleep routine or learning self-soothing or relaxation techniques. See a doctor if insomnia is making it hard for you to function during the day or if it lasts more than a couple of weeks. A doctor can help determine the cause of your insomnia and the most effective way to treat it. How is insomnia diagnosed? Diagnosing insomnia may include a physical examination and a review of your medical history to check for signs of an underlying condition. You may also be asked to track your sleep patterns and symptoms in a sleep diary. A doctor may refer you for a sleep study to check for other sleep disorders. What are the risks and side effects of insomnia? Insomnia can cause a number of risks and side effects that affect your mental and physical health and impact your ability to function. decreased performance at work or school increased risk of accidents increased risk of depression and other mental health conditions increased risk of chronic medical conditions, such as heart disease and metabolic syndrome How do you treat insomnia? Treatment for insomnia varies depending on the cause. Treatment for chronic insomnia may require addressing any underlying condition that’s causing your insomnia. A doctor may recommend cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), which is now the first-line treatment for insomnia. Overall, it’s important to learn how to reduce your sleep-related anxiety and any negative behaviors around sleep. Each of the different types of insomnia can interfere with your ability to function during the day. Acute, chronic, onset, maintenance, and behavioral insomnia of childhood are the types of insomnia. Each is associated with sleeping difficulty. The type that you might have may depend on the cause, its duration, and how it’s affecting your sleep. See a doctor if your insomnia is affecting your daily life for more than a couple of weeks. Left untreated, chronic insomnia can increase your risk of depression and other serious conditions.

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Subscribe Explore more in - Treatment - Types - Prognosis - Symptoms - Diagnosis - Causes & Risk Factors - Management - Diet - Related Conditions - Complications Insomnia #### Related Hubs [![Sleep Health](https://media.post.rvohealth.io/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Sleep-health.png)Sleep Health Routines and tips for healthier sleep](https://www.healthline.com/sleep) [![Sleep Disorders](https://media.post.rvohealth.io/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Sleep-health-sleep-disorders.png)Sleep Disorders Here's all you need to know about sleep disorders, irregular sleep schedules, insomnia, when to see a specialist, and more.](https://www.healthline.com/sleep/disorders) #### Related Topics - ### Treatment Treatment #### Related Hub [![Medication & Treatments](https://media.post.rvohealth.io/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Sleep-health-medication.png)Medication & Treatments A guide to medications and treatments for sleep management](https://www.healthline.com/sleep/treatment) #### Related Articles - [Treatment](https://www.healthline.com/health/sleep/how-to-cure-insomnia-in-12-minutes) - [Treatment](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia-treatments) - [Chronic](https://www.healthline.com/health/chronic-insomnia) - [Specialists](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia-doctors) - ### Types Types #### Related Articles - [Types](https://www.healthline.com/health/types-of-insomnia) - [Paradoxical Insomnia](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia/paradoxical-insomnia) - [Sporadic Fatal](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia/sporadic-fatal-insomnia) - [Middle](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia/middle-insomnia) - ### Prognosis Prognosis #### Related Articles - [Outlook](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia/infographic-facts-stats-on-insomnia) - ### Symptoms Symptoms #### Related Articles - [Effects on the Body](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia-concerns) - [Difficulty Sleeping](https://www.healthline.com/health/sleeping-difficulty) - ### Diagnosis Diagnosis #### Related Articles - [Diagnosis](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia/do-i-have-insomnia) - [Waking Up Too Early](https://www.healthline.com/health/waking-up-too-early) - [Typical Time to Fall Asleep](https://www.healthline.com/health/healthy-sleep/how-long-does-it-take-to-fall-asleep) - [Light Sleepers](https://www.healthline.com/health/light-sleeper) - [In Men](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia-in-men) - ### Causes & Risk Factors Causes & Risk Factors #### Related Articles - [Causes and Risk Factors](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia-causes) - [After Surgery](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia-after-surgery) - [Vaccines](https://www.healthline.com/health/vaccinations/can-vaccines-cause-insomnia) - [Hormones](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia/hormonal-insomnia-symptoms) - [Anxiety-Induced](https://www.healthline.com/health/anxiety-insomnia) - [Dehydration](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia/dehydration-insomnia-symptoms) - [In Teenagers](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia/insomnia-in-teens) - [Neurological Conditions](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia/insomnia-neurological-causes) - [Genetics](https://www.healthline.com/health/is-insomnia-genetic) - [In Women](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia/causes-of-insomnia-in-females) - ### Management Management #### Related Hub [![Tools for Sleep](https://media.post.rvohealth.io/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Sleep-health-better-tools-for-better-sleep.png)Tools for Sleep Products, apps, and more to help you sleep](https://www.healthline.com/sleep/sleep-tools) #### Related Articles - [Taking Atihistamines](https://www.healthline.com/health/healthy-sleep/antihistamine-for-sleep) - [Noises for Sleep](https://www.healthline.com/health/pink-noise-sleep) - [Postpartum](https://www.healthline.com/health/postpartum-insomnia) - [Talking with a Doctor](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia/insomnia-doctors-appointment-tips) - [Best Weighted Blankets](https://www.healthline.com/health/choose-right-size-weighted-blanket) - ### Diet Diet #### Related Articles - [Drinks to Help Sleep](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/drinks-that-help-you-sleep) - ### Related Conditions Related Conditions #### Related Articles - [Menopause-Related Insomnia](https://www.healthline.com/health/menopause/menopause-and-insomnia) - [PMS Insomnia](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia/pms-insomnia) - [High Blood Pressure](https://www.healthline.com/health/high-blood-pressure/can-high-blood-pressure-cause-insomnia) - [OCD](https://www.healthline.com/health/ocd/ocd-and-insomnia) - [Sleep Apnea](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia-vs-sleep-apnea) - ### Complications Complications #### Related Articles - [Heart Health](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia/how-insomnia-affects-your-heart) # Different Types of Insomnia Explained ![](https://i0.wp.com/post.healthline.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Thomas-Johnson-500x500-Bio1.png?w=105&h=105) [Medically reviewed]() by [Thomas Johnson, PA-C]() — Written by [Adrienne Santos-Longhurst]() — [Updated on September 11, 2024]() - [Types](https://www.healthline.com/health/types-of-insomnia#types) - [When to see a doctor](https://www.healthline.com/health/types-of-insomnia#when-to-see-a-doctor) - [FAQ](https://www.healthline.com/health/types-of-insomnia#faq) - [Takeaway](https://www.healthline.com/health/types-of-insomnia#takeaway) ### Key takeaways - Types of insomnia include onset insomnia (trouble falling asleep), maintenance insomnia (trouble staying asleep), and behavioral insomnia of childhood. Insomnia may be acute or chronic. - Acute insomnia is short-term and often related to stress or changes in your environment, while chronic insomnia lasts for at least 3 months and may be a result of underlying health conditions or medications. - If insomnia is affecting your daily life for more than a couple of weeks, it’s a good idea to get medical advice to determine the cause and find the most effective treatment, as untreated chronic insomnia can lead to other health issues. [Insomnia](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia-concerns) is a sleep disorder that makes it hard to fall or stay asleep. It leads to daytime sleepiness and a lack of feeling rested when you wake up. Approximately [10 to 15 percent](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526136/) of the general population experiences insomnia, but it’s considerably more common in [post and perimenopausal people](https://www.healthline.com/health/menopause/menopause-and-insomnia) and [older adults](https://www.healthline.com/health/sleep/sleep-disorders-in-the-elderly). It can last a few days or weeks or continue long term. [Stress](https://www.healthline.com/health/stress), [menopause](https://www.healthline.com/health/menopause), and certain physical and mental health conditions are common causes of insomnia. ## [Types of insomnia]() Each type of insomnia is characterized by its duration, effects on sleep, and underlying causes. ### Acute insomnia Acute insomnia is short-term insomnia that typically lasts [3 to 14 days](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7071368/). It’s the most common type of insomnia, with up to 30 percent of the population experiencing it annually. Acute insomnia is also referred to as adjustment insomnia because it typically occurs when you experience a stressful event, such as the death of a loved one or starting a new job. Along with stress, acute insomnia can also be caused by: - environmental factors that disrupt your sleep, such as noise or light - sleeping in an unfamiliar bed or surroundings, such as a hotel or new home - physical discomfort, such as pain or being unable to assume a comfortable position - certain medications - illness - [jet lag](https://www.healthline.com/health/jet-lag) ### Chronic insomnia Insomnia is considered chronic if you have trouble sleeping for at least 3 days per week for at least 3 months. It occurs in around [10 percent](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7071368/) of the population. [Chronic insomnia](https://www.healthline.com/health/chronic-insomnia) can be [primary or secondary](https://www.dukehealth.org/treatments/sleep-disorders/insomnia). Primary chronic insomnia, which is also called idiopathic insomnia, doesn’t have an obvious cause or underlying medical condition — it develops on its own. Secondary insomnia, also called comorbid insomnia, is more common. It’s chronic insomnia that occurs with another condition, such as [sleep apnea](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia-vs-sleep-apnea). Chronic insomnia is [commonly associated with](https://sleepeducation.org/sleep-disorders/insomnia/): - chronic medical conditions, such as: - [diabetes](https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes) - [Parkinson’s disease](https://www.healthline.com/health/parkinsons) - [hyperthyroidism](https://www.healthline.com/health/hyperthyroidism) - [obstructive](https://www.healthline.com/health/sleep/obstructive-sleep-apnea) and [central sleep apnea](https://www.healthline.com/health/sleep/central-sleep-apnea) - mental health conditions, such as: - [depression](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia/treating-insomnia-and-depression) - [anxiety](https://www.healthline.com/health/anxiety-insomnia) - [attention deficit hyperactivity disorder](https://www.healthline.com/health/adhd) - [post-traumatic stress disorder](https://www.healthline.com/health/shell-shock-ptsd) - [medications](https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jsr.13075) , including: - [chemotherapy](https://www.healthline.com/health/chemotherapy) drugs - [antidepressants](https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/medication-list) - [beta-blockers](https://www.healthline.com/health/beta-blockers-for-anxiety) - [caffeine](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/caffeine-side-effects) and other stimulants, such as: - [alcohol](https://www.healthline.com/health/alcohol/alcohol-insomnia) - [nicotine](https://www.healthline.com/health/nicotine-and-related-disorders) - other drugs - lifestyle factors, including: - frequent travel and jet lag - rotating shift work - [napping](https://www.healthline.com/health/guide-to-power-naps) ### Onset insomnia Onset insomnia involves having trouble initiating sleep. This type of insomnia can be short-term or chronic. Any of the causes of acute and chronic insomnia can make it difficult to fall asleep. [Psychological or psychiatric conditions](https://academic.oup.com/milmed/article/186/Supplement_1/246/6119496) are the most common causes, including stress, anxiety, or depression. According to a [2009 study](https://www.e-jsm.org/journal/view.php?number=97), people with chronic onset insomnia often have another sleep disorder, such as [restless leg syndrome](https://www.healthline.com/health/restless-leg-syndrome) or [periodic limb movement disorder](https://www.healthline.com/health/sleep-disorder-periodic-limb-movement). Caffeine and other stimulants can also prevent you from falling asleep. ### Maintenance insomnia Maintenance insomnia is difficulty staying asleep or waking up too early and having trouble getting back to sleep. This type of insomnia causes you to worry about not being able to fall back asleep and not getting enough sleep. This interferes with sleep further, creating a vicious cycle. Maintenance insomnia can be caused by mental health conditions, such as depression. Other medical conditions that can cause you to wake up include: - [gastroesophageal reflux disease](https://www.healthline.com/health/gerd/facts-statistics-infographic) - sleep apnea - [asthma](https://www.healthline.com/health/asthma/how-to-sleep-with-asthma-positions) and other respiratory conditions - restless leg syndrome - [periodic limb movement disorder](https://www.healthline.com/health/sleep-disorder-periodic-limb-movement) ### Behavioral insomnia of childhood Behavioral insomnia of childhood (BIC) affects up to [30 percent](https://www.thoracic.org/patients/patient-resources/resources/behavioral-insomnia-childhood.pdf) of children. It’s divided into three subtypes: - **BIC sleep-onset:** This type results from special conditions at bedtime, such as learning to go to sleep by being rocked or having a parent nearby as a child falls asleep. - **BIC limit-setting:** This type involves a child’s refusal to go to bed and repeated attempts to put off going to sleep. Examples of this behavior are asking for a drink, to go to the bathroom, or for a parent to read them another story. A child may also refuse to go back to sleep after they wake up. - **BIC combined type:** This is a combination of sleep-onset and limit-setting BIC. BIC can usually be resolved with a few behavioral changes, such as creating a healthy sleep routine or learning self-soothing or relaxation techniques. ## [When to see a doctor for insomnia]() See a doctor if insomnia is making it hard for you to function during the day or if it lasts more than a couple of weeks. A doctor can help determine the cause of your insomnia and the most effective way to treat it. ## [Frequently asked questions]() ### How is insomnia diagnosed? Diagnosing insomnia may include a [physical examination](https://www.healthline.com/health/physical-examination) and a review of your medical history to check for signs of an underlying condition. You may also be asked to track your sleep patterns and symptoms in a sleep diary. A doctor may refer you for a [sleep study](https://www.healthline.com/health/polysomnography) to check for other sleep disorders. ### What are the risks and side effects of insomnia? Insomnia can cause a number of risks and side effects that affect your mental and physical health and impact your ability to function. [Risks and side effects](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK19961/) of insomnia include: - decreased performance at work or school - increased risk of accidents - increased risk of depression and other mental health conditions - [increased risk](https://pdf.sciencedirectassets.com/273577/1-s2.0-S1556407X22X00040/1-s2.0-S1556407X22000224/am.pdf?X-Amz-Security-Token=IQoJb3JpZ2luX2VjEDgaCXVzLWVhc3QtMSJIMEYCIQD215BPKE0GQK5EdAVMKtiN19%2BtNMGCShfcMn7vP%2FHw%2BwIhAKuPP1WSvRomgClS3efyfei9TJrEJWOl%2F0yHQ2YUtQlKKrIFCGEQBRoMMDU5MDAzNTQ2ODY1IgyYDtqwu7wUZQ7590sqjwX7LlY6QfIosEwi04eeVqihZj679H11Icnro9ycQKgZK2Nxv03J0TkV%2FJpP2qtVuDMKzpUtee2QEzkTkhycMOBSsRgXlSUWR1PsS0TSqr6pJzz2N3q2WQJont0Iy9sKoPsO%2B4MxfZNNZJYec0Oa9h%2Fu453%2FuhPLl1KJ8616b%2FnLAXSOBWsOR8lrcV7DjDzBDnMjie0vyv6lb4nm6Yzj0vouDxWzSrLhsqBf1AQLqcM53bRQ3XcunFZJWxVus6Y11vH6n2wN9%2Fx5%2BweDqH0Dd%2BFZ0KVa%2BxUoevmrrNK90bc0c2HhbRAS8xlMorsFn4SrMBOW%2BVC4eSHmJyoNsmdJzGpfLmluMigZQ1ZaWbg0xl8vQT%2B8TSEYI8%2Bpyf5WQnjrs%2FFEl3ZJejr%2Fa6qT0zNPILdHZCMhuG7eGOsmrjZVzyVYOZl9afuHjZ%2FVaZkbq1NZVDrqFbrH1K0OEaWEu%2BJ6t%2B6M4PR9R8PndPuYaMwO9TsOp8H8R0m6BkwcO6tkqLv4gwdGDjghz0AIersnh4jFhzqDBvHG36jF%2BKWUI5qQXjyJ%2FLXVAGBFELyo0k4BXptT59fZaVQ1E%2Bitz9sJE2rDlS3XE7Q6P%2F2Q%2FVRuKvTsLjxVn5txrnO%2FJTh%2Bbj25PgNmjGoP%2FBvVvOXGCR4R2sRGmvVhIDABeI5rUnaUHykaSeXHMmhBqr20lPWHfW%2B09blBfefR0tlRWUTTsZ%2F4uJ4rb2DZrdhPBruzMiAzCrJ2GfF0Iw4xHtCq7e2XofhCpIkk2Yi63TRd6ECWs5U1RxTlhO9Y%2F47RO94WkjsfGa2RXev3M09zC058B5LraCRr9hc4irkqIsj1ZeJXjCwojGbj%2F%2BfwiiupxuqoXmGLxkDWXyFjMMGy%2FLYGOrABQ%2BDFSkboBscRbgg48oE%2Bv9cUl71yV6baJab07vD3UUqkWrTPj9pY6nwfHpZ2ba1XyqWsMZWWTuWYHPZXatBnpGV8%2BwAfZPtArEG1ksDZx2F1bQHMjIBPPq6BwhSTnOSsh9Y6zJw8ZtA4BmEhoX6YFG8FKw%2Bt7jOwH3sz1ZCkLfCFXB6KYAC6WAms3VHLSa04xZbmqBtzlwQPJDoiWSefKHCKyRzURmkJRVIznSWqshs%3D&X-Amz-Algorithm=AWS4-HMAC-SHA256&X-Amz-Date=20240909T165152Z&X-Amz-SignedHeaders=host&X-Amz-Expires=300&X-Amz-Credential=ASIAQ3PHCVTYQGGSZBZU%2F20240909%2Fus-east-1%2Fs3%2Faws4_request&X-Amz-Signature=3dee1567258554c280caf888e48cd44a155efe00ede5c0ec7b00203305917a60&hash=23711fe3bfa91e4e9c466171b25bd989e32264a0710497565768cd3915dfeda7&host=68042c943591013ac2b2430a89b270f6af2c76d8dfd086a07176afe7c76c2c61&pii=S1556407X22000224&tid=pdf-aed935b1-b185-4584-a04f-21ddc42623bf&sid=73a54de057c22148492a2bc216254953adeegxrqa&type=client) of chronic medical conditions, such as [heart disease](https://www.healthline.com/health/heart-disease) and metabolic syndrome ### How do you treat insomnia? Treatment for insomnia varies depending on the cause. You may be able to treat acute insomnia at home with an over-the-counter sleep aid or by [managing your stress](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/16-ways-relieve-stress-anxiety). Other treatments include [medication and drug management](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8377300/). Treatment for chronic insomnia may require addressing any underlying condition that’s causing your insomnia. A doctor may recommend cognitive [behavioral therapy](https://www.healthline.com/health/behavioral-therapy) for insomnia (CBT-I), which is now the [first-line treatment](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8808745/) for insomnia. Overall, it’s important to learn how to reduce your sleep-related anxiety and any negative behaviors around sleep. ## [The takeaway]() Each of the different types of insomnia can interfere with your ability to function during the day. Acute, chronic, onset, maintenance, and behavioral insomnia of childhood are the types of insomnia. Each is associated with sleeping difficulty. The type that you might have may depend on the cause, its duration, and how it’s affecting your sleep. See a doctor if your insomnia is affecting your daily life for more than a couple of weeks. Left untreated, chronic insomnia can increase your risk of depression and other serious conditions. ### How we reviewed this article: Sources History Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our [editorial policy](https://www.healthline.com/about/process). - Behavioral insomnia of childhood. (2021). <https://www.thoracic.org/patients/patient-resources/resources/behavioral-insomnia-childhood.pdf> - Do D. (2020). Trends in the use of medications with insomnia side effects and the implications for insomnia among U.S. adults. <https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jsr.13075> - Hansen DA, et al. (2021). Sleep deprivation and sleep-onset insomnia are associated with blunted physiological reactivity to stressors. <https://academic.oup.com/milmed/article/186/Supplement_1/246/6119496> - Insomnia. (2024). <https://www.dukehealth.org/treatments/sleep-disorders/insomnia> - Kaur H, et al. (2023). Chronic insomnia. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526136/> - Matsumura A. (2020). What is insomnia? <https://sleepeducation.org/sleep-disorders/insomnia/> - Morin CM, et al. (2022). Epidemiology of insomnia: Prevalence, course, risk factors, and public health burden. [https://pdf.sciencedirectassets.com/273577/1-s2.0-S1556407X22X00040/1-s2.0-S1556407X22000224/am.pdf?X-Amz-Security-Token=IQoJb3JpZ2luX2VjEDgaCXVzLWVhc3QtMSJIMEYCIQCZ28jgrua3n28a9AWCNNJiEIYrJ%2FzCDQE4iWfGTpnkOAIhANnMitZe7AXpu%2FrP7nFtLOawFfv3LrToo4CvBEcdMM85KrMFCGEQBRoMMDU5MDAzNTQ2ODY1IgyNCjMMWhiSY0RXlnEqkAWAfp2C298uq1h955gfpcmtmqYvRUsv%2BEO9PAdGxR0M0DHHlG55KWAduyYzWuDd7PZEQj1ZuyWTndNy%2FbWSom2czG3VtTPie4X4eVJ6lfkl0kJOi2Q7eTwCWGcMnqjEueCEFQgxWQg8ql7DEICP0nXX%2FCNWyzsPIlQldYcVGWkFKQKO9VySgPiHNhbMOhNzaSrc%2B2euLPCk1%2FnDMpgsOFD7FZ676%2FfDMjwyIpTMcuhRR%2BnQCC5BMl9PI6OrntBqpXGdeFhovO86JW5ykCr11FrZ6YRmYD3ZUlNUeJehXk4kEd8e59DfIrP%2B7VXc%2Bn25nKYdJPoMRBmEgDx5xmr1mYjyDCgE%2B%2F8JHpWcj36L6avKALvOXaL%2BgFRnPLWLb06vvsERXm3zrd9AjaJA5RCh02ZcUZamnsd0u8X%2Bp1FbCkmQWPl9f8XaNJ4CrGLIhxmwVPsd7xyfyQ7KYV53t8SM6NhAcAgAigqV0lTmlZFiLtAH7DdOJlJJtRVOounw1mzFa7SRp3nrdYcc1dFwZ0oL3sjEN7SLcFMCz78%2BJRWqZ1H%2BJtszFgWe7PhBeR0fQJ6DnUcQbEUC9ng5SIQe3kkUPD3SJs5XDasTL3fyD%2B2ftI3a%2BTCnAJp4CgencTpB0RUFs4PvrrdEnV47n5bAfhBDKA8SPwU4wKYeY6J%2Fy%2FzsQt5YJ%2Bk0JdgUcnUgDpkEOuiO5njJ3WLP0aO5i4Vujkebiy95XKRHWEgiMUs6P4hgPe0900SYVpvukxpdCg4YC4GBJD6bK9q1Ttu8HzNltnhgT76RP6c%2Bu7owSkAUkwld2kZ5TneKi3oGlw8EWsj9U8grjynL7MsxG%2FJCC3h%2B7SYLJwutJrCK6fLw2NUZWlSTKFKMPTDrrfy2BjqwAdxmAueElllMSojjH3opzC1Ln1VybFbhRk36rQvUnp%2FLBKTaSNGEXeMb6Vh9grIg1E4kMVLuHsG0Cs6l%2BVlrZQokPGeOleH3qsYsXTFlK6dqYgAFFl4W8PR1f7Htlv6HMGJ2weIL1zierEb5sqAS3hr5hqaj2FMG1ToZ0aKx5w3Bqqy8nuK3lisD7HycaPG7yVGmYYIAPkGIPzwhWUTDSBOaXUeo6afYhpUZ4ukgdhzK\&X-Amz-Algorithm=AWS4-HMAC-SHA256\&X-Amz-Date=20240909T165542Z\&X-Amz-SignedHeaders=host\&X-Amz-Expires=300\&X-Amz-Credential=ASIAQ3PHCVTY5GDRBAXY%2F20240909%2Fus-east-1%2Fs3%2Faws4\_request\&X-Amz-Signature=12f1b6dd0b17ebf9f6ee09aa37b43f94ef11e315e64b910682f16f1c33e714ca\&hash=efa9775b4487fb24b56f276ff48c97066533ff98717e3f541a951b8284407f37\&host=68042c943591013ac2b2430a89b270f6af2c76d8dfd086a07176afe7c76c2c61\&pii=S1556407X22000224\&tid=pdf-478763c6-02d8-4f71-9ebe-7e2fa39a386d\&sid=73a54de057c22148492a2bc216254953adeegxrqa\&type=client](https://pdf.sciencedirectassets.com/273577/1-s2.0-S1556407X22X00040/1-s2.0-S1556407X22000224/am.pdf?X-Amz-Security-Token=IQoJb3JpZ2luX2VjEDgaCXVzLWVhc3QtMSJIMEYCIQCZ28jgrua3n28a9AWCNNJiEIYrJ%2FzCDQE4iWfGTpnkOAIhANnMitZe7AXpu%2FrP7nFtLOawFfv3LrToo4CvBEcdMM85KrMFCGEQBRoMMDU5MDAzNTQ2ODY1IgyNCjMMWhiSY0RXlnEqkAWAfp2C298uq1h955gfpcmtmqYvRUsv%2BEO9PAdGxR0M0DHHlG55KWAduyYzWuDd7PZEQj1ZuyWTndNy%2FbWSom2czG3VtTPie4X4eVJ6lfkl0kJOi2Q7eTwCWGcMnqjEueCEFQgxWQg8ql7DEICP0nXX%2FCNWyzsPIlQldYcVGWkFKQKO9VySgPiHNhbMOhNzaSrc%2B2euLPCk1%2FnDMpgsOFD7FZ676%2FfDMjwyIpTMcuhRR%2BnQCC5BMl9PI6OrntBqpXGdeFhovO86JW5ykCr11FrZ6YRmYD3ZUlNUeJehXk4kEd8e59DfIrP%2B7VXc%2Bn25nKYdJPoMRBmEgDx5xmr1mYjyDCgE%2B%2F8JHpWcj36L6avKALvOXaL%2BgFRnPLWLb06vvsERXm3zrd9AjaJA5RCh02ZcUZamnsd0u8X%2Bp1FbCkmQWPl9f8XaNJ4CrGLIhxmwVPsd7xyfyQ7KYV53t8SM6NhAcAgAigqV0lTmlZFiLtAH7DdOJlJJtRVOounw1mzFa7SRp3nrdYcc1dFwZ0oL3sjEN7SLcFMCz78%2BJRWqZ1H%2BJtszFgWe7PhBeR0fQJ6DnUcQbEUC9ng5SIQe3kkUPD3SJs5XDasTL3fyD%2B2ftI3a%2BTCnAJp4CgencTpB0RUFs4PvrrdEnV47n5bAfhBDKA8SPwU4wKYeY6J%2Fy%2FzsQt5YJ%2Bk0JdgUcnUgDpkEOuiO5njJ3WLP0aO5i4Vujkebiy95XKRHWEgiMUs6P4hgPe0900SYVpvukxpdCg4YC4GBJD6bK9q1Ttu8HzNltnhgT76RP6c%2Bu7owSkAUkwld2kZ5TneKi3oGlw8EWsj9U8grjynL7MsxG%2FJCC3h%2B7SYLJwutJrCK6fLw2NUZWlSTKFKMPTDrrfy2BjqwAdxmAueElllMSojjH3opzC1Ln1VybFbhRk36rQvUnp%2FLBKTaSNGEXeMb6Vh9grIg1E4kMVLuHsG0Cs6l%2BVlrZQokPGeOleH3qsYsXTFlK6dqYgAFFl4W8PR1f7Htlv6HMGJ2weIL1zierEb5sqAS3hr5hqaj2FMG1ToZ0aKx5w3Bqqy8nuK3lisD7HycaPG7yVGmYYIAPkGIPzwhWUTDSBOaXUeo6afYhpUZ4ukgdhzK&X-Amz-Algorithm=AWS4-HMAC-SHA256&X-Amz-Date=20240909T165542Z&X-Amz-SignedHeaders=host&X-Amz-Expires=300&X-Amz-Credential=ASIAQ3PHCVTY5GDRBAXY%2F20240909%2Fus-east-1%2Fs3%2Faws4_request&X-Amz-Signature=12f1b6dd0b17ebf9f6ee09aa37b43f94ef11e315e64b910682f16f1c33e714ca&hash=efa9775b4487fb24b56f276ff48c97066533ff98717e3f541a951b8284407f37&host=68042c943591013ac2b2430a89b270f6af2c76d8dfd086a07176afe7c76c2c61&pii=S1556407X22000224&tid=pdf-478763c6-02d8-4f71-9ebe-7e2fa39a386d&sid=73a54de057c22148492a2bc216254953adeegxrqa&type=client) - Muench A, et al. (2022). We know CBT-I works, now what? <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8808745/> - Ng L, et al. (2021). Management of insomnia in primary care. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8377300/> - Sleep disorders and sleep deprivation: An unmet public health problem. (n.d.). <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK19961/> - Vargas I, et al. (2020). Acute and chronic insomnia: What has time and/or hyperarousal got to do with it? <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7071368/> Share this article ![](https://i0.wp.com/post.healthline.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Thomas-Johnson-500x500-Bio1.png?w=105&h=105) [Medically reviewed]() by [Thomas Johnson, PA-C]() — Written by [Adrienne Santos-Longhurst]() — [Updated on September 11, 2024]() ## related stories - [What Can Cause Insomnia?](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia-causes?utm_source=ReadNext) - [What Causes Insomnia in Women?](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia/causes-of-insomnia-in-females?utm_source=ReadNext) - [What Is Psychophysiological Insomnia and What Can You Do If You Have It?](https://www.healthline.com/health/psychophysiological-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Overview of Secondary Insomnia](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia/secondary-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Understanding the Relationship Between Antidepressants and Insomnia](https://www.healthline.com/health/antidepressants-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) ### Read this next - [What Can Cause Insomnia?](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia-causes?utm_source=ReadNext) [Insomnia can affect your overall health. Here’s what may be causing it and what you can do about it.](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia-causes?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia-causes?utm_source=ReadNext) - [What Causes Insomnia in Women?](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia/causes-of-insomnia-in-females?utm_source=ReadNext) [Causes of insomnia in females can include hormonal changes and underlying health conditions. Learn more about why females are at increased risk.](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia/causes-of-insomnia-in-females?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia/causes-of-insomnia-in-females?utm_source=ReadNext) - [What Is Psychophysiological Insomnia and What Can You Do If You Have It?](https://www.healthline.com/health/psychophysiological-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) Medically reviewed by [Nicole Washington, DO, MPH](https://www.healthline.com/medical-team) [Psychophysiological insomnia is a chronic sleep disorder where anxieties about not being able to sleep hampers a person from falling, or staying…](https://www.healthline.com/health/psychophysiological-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/psychophysiological-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Overview of Secondary Insomnia](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia/secondary-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) [Learn more about secondary insomnia, which is when you cannot fall asleep or stay asleep at night due to another underlying medical condition.](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia/secondary-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia/secondary-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Understanding the Relationship Between Antidepressants and Insomnia](https://www.healthline.com/health/antidepressants-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) [While some antidepressants are stimulating, others have sedative effects that can promote better sleep, especially in people who experience insomnia.](https://www.healthline.com/health/antidepressants-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/antidepressants-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) - [What Is Rebound Insomnia?](https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-rebound-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) [Rebound insomnia typically occurs after discontinuing sleep medications and is characterized by increased wakefulness and inability to fall asleep…](https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-rebound-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-rebound-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) - [How Much GABA Should You Take for Insomnia?](https://www.healthline.com/health/how-much-gaba-to-take-for-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) [GABA may be able to help those with insomnia. Learn how best to try this supplement and how much to take.](https://www.healthline.com/health/how-much-gaba-to-take-for-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/how-much-gaba-to-take-for-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Can Taking Creatine Cause Insomnia?](https://www.healthline.com/health/creatine-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) [Creatine is not generally known to cause insomnia and there's no scientific evidence linking creatine with insomnia or sleep difficulties. Creatine…](https://www.healthline.com/health/creatine-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/creatine-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Does Hypnotherapy Work for Insomnia?](https://www.healthline.com/health/hypnotherapy-for-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) [Though research is mixed, hypnotherapy may help some people sleep. Learn what to expect and what current research shows.](https://www.healthline.com/health/hypnotherapy-for-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/hypnotherapy-for-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Is Vitamin D Deficiency Linked to Insomnia?](https://www.healthline.com/health/vitamin-d-and-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) [Vitamin D may be affecting your sleep. Many people do not get enough of this essential vitamin from their diet or from spending time in the sun. A…](https://www.healthline.com/health/vitamin-d-and-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/vitamin-d-and-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) © 2026 Healthline Media LLC. All rights reserved. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 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Readable Markdown

[Insomnia](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia-concerns) is a sleep disorder that makes it hard to fall or stay asleep. It leads to daytime sleepiness and a lack of feeling rested when you wake up. [Stress](https://www.healthline.com/health/stress), [menopause](https://www.healthline.com/health/menopause), and certain physical and mental health conditions are common causes of insomnia. Each type of insomnia is characterized by its duration, effects on sleep, and underlying causes. Acute insomnia Acute insomnia is short-term insomnia that typically lasts [3 to 14 days](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7071368/). It’s the most common type of insomnia, with up to 30 percent of the population experiencing it annually. Acute insomnia is also referred to as adjustment insomnia because it typically occurs when you experience a stressful event, such as the death of a loved one or starting a new job. Along with stress, acute insomnia can also be caused by: - environmental factors that disrupt your sleep, such as noise or light - sleeping in an unfamiliar bed or surroundings, such as a hotel or new home - physical discomfort, such as pain or being unable to assume a comfortable position - certain medications - illness - [jet lag](https://www.healthline.com/health/jet-lag) Chronic insomnia Insomnia is considered chronic if you have trouble sleeping for at least 3 days per week for at least 3 months. It occurs in around [10 percent](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7071368/) of the population. [Chronic insomnia](https://www.healthline.com/health/chronic-insomnia) can be [primary or secondary](https://www.dukehealth.org/treatments/sleep-disorders/insomnia). Primary chronic insomnia, which is also called idiopathic insomnia, doesn’t have an obvious cause or underlying medical condition — it develops on its own. Secondary insomnia, also called comorbid insomnia, is more common. It’s chronic insomnia that occurs with another condition, such as [sleep apnea](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia-vs-sleep-apnea). - chronic medical conditions, such as: - [diabetes](https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes) - [Parkinson’s disease](https://www.healthline.com/health/parkinsons) - [hyperthyroidism](https://www.healthline.com/health/hyperthyroidism) - [obstructive](https://www.healthline.com/health/sleep/obstructive-sleep-apnea) and [central sleep apnea](https://www.healthline.com/health/sleep/central-sleep-apnea) - mental health conditions, such as: - [depression](https://www.healthline.com/health/insomnia/treating-insomnia-and-depression) - [anxiety](https://www.healthline.com/health/anxiety-insomnia) - [attention deficit hyperactivity disorder](https://www.healthline.com/health/adhd) - [post-traumatic stress disorder](https://www.healthline.com/health/shell-shock-ptsd) - [medications](https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jsr.13075) , including: - [chemotherapy](https://www.healthline.com/health/chemotherapy) drugs - [antidepressants](https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/medication-list) - [beta-blockers](https://www.healthline.com/health/beta-blockers-for-anxiety) - [caffeine](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/caffeine-side-effects) and other stimulants, such as: - [alcohol](https://www.healthline.com/health/alcohol/alcohol-insomnia) - [nicotine](https://www.healthline.com/health/nicotine-and-related-disorders) - other drugs - lifestyle factors, including: - frequent travel and jet lag - rotating shift work - [napping](https://www.healthline.com/health/guide-to-power-naps) Onset insomnia Onset insomnia involves having trouble initiating sleep. This type of insomnia can be short-term or chronic. Any of the causes of acute and chronic insomnia can make it difficult to fall asleep. [Psychological or psychiatric conditions](https://academic.oup.com/milmed/article/186/Supplement_1/246/6119496) are the most common causes, including stress, anxiety, or depression. Caffeine and other stimulants can also prevent you from falling asleep. Maintenance insomnia Maintenance insomnia is difficulty staying asleep or waking up too early and having trouble getting back to sleep. This type of insomnia causes you to worry about not being able to fall back asleep and not getting enough sleep. This interferes with sleep further, creating a vicious cycle. Maintenance insomnia can be caused by mental health conditions, such as depression. Other medical conditions that can cause you to wake up include: - [gastroesophageal reflux disease](https://www.healthline.com/health/gerd/facts-statistics-infographic) - sleep apnea - [asthma](https://www.healthline.com/health/asthma/how-to-sleep-with-asthma-positions) and other respiratory conditions - restless leg syndrome - [periodic limb movement disorder](https://www.healthline.com/health/sleep-disorder-periodic-limb-movement) Behavioral insomnia of childhood Behavioral insomnia of childhood (BIC) affects up to [30 percent](https://www.thoracic.org/patients/patient-resources/resources/behavioral-insomnia-childhood.pdf) of children. It’s divided into three subtypes: - **BIC sleep-onset:** This type results from special conditions at bedtime, such as learning to go to sleep by being rocked or having a parent nearby as a child falls asleep. - **BIC limit-setting:** This type involves a child’s refusal to go to bed and repeated attempts to put off going to sleep. Examples of this behavior are asking for a drink, to go to the bathroom, or for a parent to read them another story. A child may also refuse to go back to sleep after they wake up. - **BIC combined type:** This is a combination of sleep-onset and limit-setting BIC. BIC can usually be resolved with a few behavioral changes, such as creating a healthy sleep routine or learning self-soothing or relaxation techniques. See a doctor if insomnia is making it hard for you to function during the day or if it lasts more than a couple of weeks. A doctor can help determine the cause of your insomnia and the most effective way to treat it. How is insomnia diagnosed? Diagnosing insomnia may include a [physical examination](https://www.healthline.com/health/physical-examination) and a review of your medical history to check for signs of an underlying condition. You may also be asked to track your sleep patterns and symptoms in a sleep diary. A doctor may refer you for a [sleep study](https://www.healthline.com/health/polysomnography) to check for other sleep disorders. What are the risks and side effects of insomnia? Insomnia can cause a number of risks and side effects that affect your mental and physical health and impact your ability to function. - decreased performance at work or school - increased risk of accidents - increased risk of depression and other mental health conditions - [increased risk](https://pdf.sciencedirectassets.com/273577/1-s2.0-S1556407X22X00040/1-s2.0-S1556407X22000224/am.pdf?X-Amz-Security-Token=IQoJb3JpZ2luX2VjEDgaCXVzLWVhc3QtMSJIMEYCIQD215BPKE0GQK5EdAVMKtiN19%2BtNMGCShfcMn7vP%2FHw%2BwIhAKuPP1WSvRomgClS3efyfei9TJrEJWOl%2F0yHQ2YUtQlKKrIFCGEQBRoMMDU5MDAzNTQ2ODY1IgyYDtqwu7wUZQ7590sqjwX7LlY6QfIosEwi04eeVqihZj679H11Icnro9ycQKgZK2Nxv03J0TkV%2FJpP2qtVuDMKzpUtee2QEzkTkhycMOBSsRgXlSUWR1PsS0TSqr6pJzz2N3q2WQJont0Iy9sKoPsO%2B4MxfZNNZJYec0Oa9h%2Fu453%2FuhPLl1KJ8616b%2FnLAXSOBWsOR8lrcV7DjDzBDnMjie0vyv6lb4nm6Yzj0vouDxWzSrLhsqBf1AQLqcM53bRQ3XcunFZJWxVus6Y11vH6n2wN9%2Fx5%2BweDqH0Dd%2BFZ0KVa%2BxUoevmrrNK90bc0c2HhbRAS8xlMorsFn4SrMBOW%2BVC4eSHmJyoNsmdJzGpfLmluMigZQ1ZaWbg0xl8vQT%2B8TSEYI8%2Bpyf5WQnjrs%2FFEl3ZJejr%2Fa6qT0zNPILdHZCMhuG7eGOsmrjZVzyVYOZl9afuHjZ%2FVaZkbq1NZVDrqFbrH1K0OEaWEu%2BJ6t%2B6M4PR9R8PndPuYaMwO9TsOp8H8R0m6BkwcO6tkqLv4gwdGDjghz0AIersnh4jFhzqDBvHG36jF%2BKWUI5qQXjyJ%2FLXVAGBFELyo0k4BXptT59fZaVQ1E%2Bitz9sJE2rDlS3XE7Q6P%2F2Q%2FVRuKvTsLjxVn5txrnO%2FJTh%2Bbj25PgNmjGoP%2FBvVvOXGCR4R2sRGmvVhIDABeI5rUnaUHykaSeXHMmhBqr20lPWHfW%2B09blBfefR0tlRWUTTsZ%2F4uJ4rb2DZrdhPBruzMiAzCrJ2GfF0Iw4xHtCq7e2XofhCpIkk2Yi63TRd6ECWs5U1RxTlhO9Y%2F47RO94WkjsfGa2RXev3M09zC058B5LraCRr9hc4irkqIsj1ZeJXjCwojGbj%2F%2BfwiiupxuqoXmGLxkDWXyFjMMGy%2FLYGOrABQ%2BDFSkboBscRbgg48oE%2Bv9cUl71yV6baJab07vD3UUqkWrTPj9pY6nwfHpZ2ba1XyqWsMZWWTuWYHPZXatBnpGV8%2BwAfZPtArEG1ksDZx2F1bQHMjIBPPq6BwhSTnOSsh9Y6zJw8ZtA4BmEhoX6YFG8FKw%2Bt7jOwH3sz1ZCkLfCFXB6KYAC6WAms3VHLSa04xZbmqBtzlwQPJDoiWSefKHCKyRzURmkJRVIznSWqshs%3D&X-Amz-Algorithm=AWS4-HMAC-SHA256&X-Amz-Date=20240909T165152Z&X-Amz-SignedHeaders=host&X-Amz-Expires=300&X-Amz-Credential=ASIAQ3PHCVTYQGGSZBZU%2F20240909%2Fus-east-1%2Fs3%2Faws4_request&X-Amz-Signature=3dee1567258554c280caf888e48cd44a155efe00ede5c0ec7b00203305917a60&hash=23711fe3bfa91e4e9c466171b25bd989e32264a0710497565768cd3915dfeda7&host=68042c943591013ac2b2430a89b270f6af2c76d8dfd086a07176afe7c76c2c61&pii=S1556407X22000224&tid=pdf-aed935b1-b185-4584-a04f-21ddc42623bf&sid=73a54de057c22148492a2bc216254953adeegxrqa&type=client) of chronic medical conditions, such as [heart disease](https://www.healthline.com/health/heart-disease) and metabolic syndrome How do you treat insomnia? Treatment for insomnia varies depending on the cause. Treatment for chronic insomnia may require addressing any underlying condition that’s causing your insomnia. A doctor may recommend cognitive [behavioral therapy](https://www.healthline.com/health/behavioral-therapy) for insomnia (CBT-I), which is now the [first-line treatment](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8808745/) for insomnia. Overall, it’s important to learn how to reduce your sleep-related anxiety and any negative behaviors around sleep. Each of the different types of insomnia can interfere with your ability to function during the day. Acute, chronic, onset, maintenance, and behavioral insomnia of childhood are the types of insomnia. Each is associated with sleeping difficulty. The type that you might have may depend on the cause, its duration, and how it’s affecting your sleep. See a doctor if your insomnia is affecting your daily life for more than a couple of weeks. Left untreated, chronic insomnia can increase your risk of depression and other serious conditions.

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Adrienne Santos-Longhurst

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2019-05-04 09:02:06 (6 years ago)

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