June 21st is Insomnia Awareness Night!

Are you having difficulty falling and/or staying asleep at night? Do you feel like every night is a constant battle between you and your sleep? If so, you are not alone. Insomnia, the most common sleep disorder that affects nearly 50-70 million Americans annually, causes one much trouble with their sleep health.

Throughout the month of June, we experience some of the shortest nights of the year. June 21, the summer solstice, marks the official beginning of the summer season. While the sun is at its highest point, we will experience the most hours of daylight and the least hours of darkness of any other day in the calendar year.

For those living with acute or chronic insomnia, every night can feel a little too short. Insomnia Awareness Night, organized by both the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) and Society of Behavioral Sleep Medicine (SBSM), is a night dedicated to raising awareness for this common sleep disorder.

Causes and Effects

The exceptionally high number of insomnia cases worldwide is no coincidence. Causes of this prevalent sleep disorder include increased stress levels related to major life events, inconsistent travel or work schedules, or even eating too much before bedtime. Being able to maintain a consistent sleep schedule while practicing healthy sleep habits is key to getting the adequate sleep your body needs.

Those who have dealt or are dealing with insomnia may experience the following symptoms:

·      Fatigue

·      Irritability

·      Difficulty paying attention or focusing on tasks

·      Sleepiness during the day

·      Depression or anxiety

·      Grumpiness

 Acute Insomnia vs. Chronic Insomnia

There are two different types of insomnia people may experience; the first is acute insomnia and the second, chronic insomnia.

Acute insomnia affects one’s sleep over a brief period, usually lasting anywhere from one night to a couple weeks. This form of insomnia can resolve on its own and be easily managed and remedied with healthy sleep habits and relaxation techniques.

Chronic insomnia, on the other hand, lasts much longer. Chronic insomnia occurs when you have trouble sleeping at least three nights per week for three months straight. Causes for chronic insomnia vary from person to person, so understanding the root of your sleep troubles is the first step in treating this disorder.

You don’t have to keep putting up with sleepless nights. At FusionSleep®, we have dedicated our entire medical practice to helping patients get their lives back through healthy sleep. We offer various sleep solutions, in-lab and at-home sleep testing options, and virtual appointments on our established telemedicine platform. Contact us today on our website or by calling 678.990.3962.