• Short Term (Acute) - lasts for few days to few weeks usually the result of stress or a traumatic event. In short term, symptoms may occur less often and be present for less than three months.
• Long Term (Chronic) - lasts for a month or more. More often associated with medical conditions or medications. In long term, symptoms may occur at least three times per week for at least three months.

As per the standard guidelines, Insomnia may be present if an adult takes more than 30 minutes to fall asleep or is awake for 30 minutes or more during the night

Along with the symptoms related to night time sleep, a person must have at least one of the daytime symptoms related to their sleeping problems:

• Fatigue
• Trouble with work, school, or social performance
• Poor concentration or attention span
• Excessive sleepiness
• Irritability or disturbed mood
• Behavioural issues like hyperactivity or aggressiveness
• Decreased motivation
• Increased risks of accidents

Consult the doctor if the symptoms discussed above persists for more than 3 months. It could be associated with one of the sleep disorders. Symptoms of insomnia overlap with symptoms of sleep disorders, so it is important to consult doctor rather than self-diagnose any sleeping problem.

Insomnia affects you both physically and mentally. People with insomnia experience lower quality of life as compared to people who are having adequate sleeping. Complications of insomnia include:

• Lower performance at school, at job or at work.
• Slower reaction time while driving and a higher risk of road traffic accidents.
• Mental health disorders such as depression or anxiety disorder.
• Increased risk and severity of long-term diseases or problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease.

Sleep is as important to your health as a healthy diet and regular exercise Most adults need 7 to 8 hours of sleep each day. Simple changes in your daily habits often helps to improve your sleep. The most common treatment for insomnia is:

• Medications – if insomnia is associated with other disorders.
• Counselling - Counselling the patient to discuss the triggers that are causing stress specially in case of short-term insomnia.
• Relaxation Techniques – If Insomnia is associated with stress depression and anxiety.
• Cognitive behavioural therapy – To manage anxiety due to sleep deprivation.
• Sleep Hygiene – Follow the Sleep Hygiene as recommended by your Sleep Rehab specialist.