A new survey revealed that millions of Americans have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. The findings indicate that approximately 12% of the population has been diagnosed with chronic insomnia, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM).
Millions of Americans Are Suffering From Chronic Insomnia
According to HealthDay, chronic insomnia is a sleep disorder marked by ongoing difficulty initiating sleep, maintaining sleep, or waking up too early and being unable to resume sleep.
This condition occurs at least three nights weekly and extends for three months or more. In contrast to acute insomnia, which is typically short-lived and triggered by stress or environmental changes, chronic insomnia is characterized by its enduring nature and prolonged impact on sleep patterns.
Chronic insomnia also poses significant risks to physical, mental, and emotional well-being. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems, such as an increased risk of mental health disorders, a weakened immune system, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and substance abuse, according to experts.
Men are marginally more affected than women, with 13% of men reporting a chronic insomnia diagnosis compared to 11% of women. Among the age groups, millennials have the highest rate of diagnosis, at 15%.
Insomnia's effects stretch beyond sleepless nights. Those suffering from the condition often experience a range of symptoms during the day, including fatigue, sleepiness, and a general dissatisfaction with their sleep quality.Concentration difficulties, feelings of depression or anxiety, irritability, and low motivation or energy levels are also common.
Dr. Eric Olson, president of AASM, noted that chronic insomnia impacts not just nighttime sleep but also daytime functioning and overall well-being. He added that effective treatments can enhance health and quality of life for those affected.
CBT for Chronic Insomnia
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most effective treatment for chronic insomnia. It integrates behavioral techniques, such as establishing a consistent sleep schedule and leaving bed during periods of sleeplessness, alongside cognitive strategies to replace negative expectations about sleep with more constructive ones.
Typically, patients undergo six to eight sessions to address insomnia, though some may experience improvement sooner. Michael Nadorff, President of the Society of Behavioral Sleep Medicine, underscored that CBT offers a personalized approach to pinpoint underlying issues and foster healthy sleep habits.
Individuals grappling with sleep difficulties are advised to consult a healthcare provider. Physicians may refer patients to a therapist or an AASM-accredited sleep center for further evaluation and support.
The prevalence of chronic insomnia across the United States underscores the necessity for heightened awareness and accessible treatment modalities. While many endure silently, effective therapies like CBT provide optimism for sustained relief and enhanced quality of life.
