People suffering from insomnia will often have a hard time falling asleep, trouble staying asleep or experience poor quality sleep. Insomniacs may also wake up too early and find themselves unable to fall back asleep.

Many factors can affect the development of this condition, which can present in several different ways.

Types of Insomnia

The most common forms of insomnia are adjustment and conditioned.

Adjustment Insomnia

Also referred to as acute insomnia, is usually the result of stress and can last for days or weeks at a time.

According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, this form is more common in women and older adults.

Cognitive behavioral therapies, such as relaxation training to calm the mind and body before sleep, can help and provide other long-term health benefits.

Changing the attitudes causing stress or removing oneself from the stressful situation can also help.

Conditioned Insomnia

Conditioned insomnia is characterized by worrying about not being able to fall asleep.

The more you worry about falling asleep as soon as possible, the more difficult it becomes to actually get rest.

Anxiety, poor sleep habits and alcohol use can all perpetuate this condition.

Practicing healthy sleep habits and going to bed only when sleepy can help resolve conditioned insomnia. In some severe cases, sleeping pills may also be recommended.

Treatment

Many patients with insomnia are best treated without medication.

The full range of treatment options, including behavioral treatment for children and adults, and medication when needed, are available.

Get Started

To see a sleep specialist, contact your physician and ask for a referral to OSF Sleep.

Once we have received the referral, we will contact you to schedule an appointment.