The Three Types of Insomnia

Insomnia can occur in people of all ages, but is most common in women and older adults. Most individuals just experience a night or two of poor sleep, but sometimes the sleep disturbance can last for weeks, months, or even years.

There are three types of insomnia:

Transient insomnia - this person cannot sleep for a period of less than four weeks because of a special life reason such as a big event. Physical activity close to bedtime (within four hours) and illness can also cause this type of insomnia.

Short-term insomnia - this person can't sleep for a period of four weeks to six months. Periods of ongoing stress at work or at home, medical conditions, psychiatric illness or other persistent factors can result in short-term insomnia. As the cause resolves or the sleeper adjusts to it, sleep will usually return to normal.

Chronic insomnia - more than 20 million Americans complain of chronic insomnia, defined as poor sleep every night or most nights for more than six months. Insomnia may be a physical problem, not due to psychological factors. Insomnia may also be due to a physical problem.