Insomnia

What is Insomnia?

Insomnia is a common reason people seek therapy. The experience can look different from one person to another: symptoms may be mostly emotional, physical, cognitive (thought-based), or relational.

On this page you’ll find an overview of Insomnia, typical signs, and what support options can look like.

Sleep difficulties in Insomnia are often maintained by stress and learned sleep patterns. Structured sleep therapy can be highly effective.

Common symptoms of Insomnia

• Difficulty falling asleep
• Waking during the night
• Early morning waking
• Non-restorative sleep
• Daytime fatigue

Possible causes and contributing factors

Insomnia rarely has a single cause. It usually results from a mix of biology, life experiences, stress levels, personality traits, and current context.

• Stress and overthinking
• Irregular sleep schedule
• Excess screen time or stimulants
• Anxiety or depression

How therapy can help with Insomnia

Therapy can help you understand what maintains Insomnia, reduce symptoms, and build coping strategies that fit your life. Depending on your needs, your therapist may focus on thoughts, emotions, behaviors, body sensations, relationships, or a mix of these.

Treatment options

• CBT-I / sleep therapy
• Relaxation and stimulus control
• Treat underlying anxiety/depression
• Medical evaluation if needed

Practical coping tips

• Keep a consistent wake time
• Wind-down routine
• Limit caffeine late day
• Use the bed only for sleep

When to seek help

Consider reaching out for professional support if your symptoms are frequent, intense, or interfere with your daily life (work, studies, relationships, sleep).

If you feel unsafe or at immediate risk of harm, contact local emergency services or a crisis hotline right away. This page about Insomnia is for information only and does not replace medical advice.

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Medical disclaimer: This content is for general information only and does not replace diagnosis or treatment from a qualified professional.