Sleepless

Sleepless is an adjective that describes a person who does not sleep or a period in which sleep is limited. It is often used to refer to temporary wakefulness caused by stress, excitement, or environmental factors, as well as to the clinical condition insomnia when sleep problems are persistent. The related noun sleeplessness denotes the state itself.

Causes of sleeplessness are diverse and can include acute stress, anxiety disorders, depression, chronic pain, thyroid problems, medications, caffeine or stimulant use, alcohol, poor sleep habits, and disruptive sleep schedules such as shift work or jet lag. Sleep apnea and other sleep disorders can also contribute.

Symptoms of sleeplessness in the short term include difficulty falling or staying asleep, nighttime awakenings, and daytime fatigue. Prolonged sleeplessness can impair concentration, memory, mood, and coordination, raising safety risks and reducing quality of life. In some cases, sleeplessness is a symptom of an underlying medical or psychiatric condition.

Diagnosis typically relies on reported sleep patterns and may involve screening tools and sleep diaries. In clinical practice, persistent sleep difficulties affecting daily functioning for several weeks to months may be identified as insomnia.

Management emphasizes sleep hygiene and behavioral approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I). Guidance may include establishing a regular sleep schedule, limiting caffeine, reducing screen time before bed, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and managing stress. Short-term pharmacologic options exist but are usually used with caution due to risks of dependency and side effects, especially in older adults. Treating underlying conditions can also improve sleep.