Insomnia, a prevalent sleep disorder that impacts numerous individuals worldwide, can manifest in various ways. While commonly associated with trouble initiating sleep, it can also involve challenges in maintaining sleep or experiencing restful sleep. The symptoms of short-term insomnia may vary in intensity, but chronic insomnia can have long-term and potentially life-threatening consequences.
Struggling to Fall Asleep
Experiencing difficulty falling asleep is a telltale sign of insomnia. Although the sensation can vary among individuals, there are a few typical manifestations. Some may find it challenging to get into a comfortable sleeping position or have difficulty quieting their racing thoughts. Research indicates that struggling to fall asleep is more prevalent among younger adults.
Dealing with Nocturnal Awakenings
Experiencing difficulty falling asleep is not the only challenge faced by individuals suffering from insomnia. Many also frequently find themselves waking up at night or only being able to sleep for short periods of time. These episodes, known as nocturnal awakenings, tend to affect older adults more often. Interestingly, it has been observed that around two-thirds of people struggling with falling asleep also experience nocturnal awakenings. In fact, waking up at night is the most prevalent symptom of insomnia among the general population.