Do I Have Insomnia?

Do you have difficulties falling asleep, maintaining sleep and/or early-morning awakening with inability to return to sleep?

Does the sleep disturbance cause distress or impairment in important areas of functioning (e.g., social, educational, behavioral, work-related)?

Does the sleep disturbance occur at least 3 nights per week?

Have you been dealing with this sleep disturbance for at least 3 months?

Does the sleep disturbance happen despite having adequate opportunity to sleep well?

Are you sure that the sleep disturbance is not better explained by, and does not occur exclusively, during the course of another sleep-wake disorder (e.g., narcolepsy, parasomnia)?

Are you sure that the sleep disturbance is not attributable to the effects of a substance (e.g., a drug or medication)?

Are you sure that the sleep disturbance is not better explained by coexisting mental disorders or medical conditions?

Based on your answers, it unlikely that you have insomnia. However, if your sleep disturbance has a negative effect on normal functioning, it is advised that you discuss the issue with your doctor. If you doctor suspects a sleep disorder, you may be referred to a specialized center for further testing.

Based on your answers, you don't seem to have insomnia, but you may be suffering from a related problem. If your sleep problem makes it difficult to function normally, it is advised that you discuss your problem with your doctor. It is often the case that insomnia is associated with other health conditions, for example stress. Finding out and treating the underlying cause can resolve the sleeping problem.

Based on your answers, it is likely that you will be diagnosed with insomnia disorder and it is advised that you discuss your problem with your doctor. Insomnia disorder will be diagnosed if there is a dissatisfaction with sleep quantity or quality (difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep) accompanied by impairment in important areas of functioning. Insomnia can have many causes and good sleep habits can help prevent this disorder. Examples of good sleeping habits include avoiding naps, avoiding large meals before going to bed, and staying active.