INSOMNIA

Insomnia is difficult to live with- tossing and turning on your bed, counting the ceiling squares, reading a boring book, keeping your eyes busy on social media, listening to that solemn playlist to help you drift off into sleep, yet the seconds slowly tick away as though the clock has forgotten how to race in time. Some of us even go as far as rearranging the bedroom or going to make a meal at midnight in the hopes that we will tire ourselves out and fall asleep. 

The aftermath by morning is not so pleasant, as it causes symptoms such as constant exhaustion, poor concentration, and heightened irritability. It is however important to know that though insomnia is a disorder, it can be managed and treated accordingly.

Understanding Insomnia
- Primary insomnia: This is a type of insomnia that appears independently and is very temporary; it is present with no other co-existing disease. Some individuals have sleepless nights when they are unable to have eight hours of sleep, especially when they are stressed. 
- Chronic insomnia: This is painful and is accompanied by a prolonged period of sleeplessness at night, usually more than six months. 
- Co-morbid insomnia: When insomnia exists alongside another medical or psychiatric condition.

Insomnia is caused by factors such as stress, anxiety, chronic diseases like pain and asthma, and environmental causes such as noise and an uncomfortable bed.

Dealing with Insomnia
- Proper sleep hygiene: Among all the potential treatments of insomnia, one of the most effective is this concept. This entails opting for a customary way of getting to sleep that is understood by the body as a signal of preparation for sleep. For example, it is helpful to go to bed at the same time every day.
- Conducive environment: The environment in which you sleep also matters a lot. It is necessary to point out that your bedroom should be cool and preferably quiet. Avoid bright lights, and if the environment is noisy, you can make use of earplugs.
- It is advisable for you not to take any stimulants, including caffeine, at least six hours before going to bed. 
- Avoid using your phone while on your bed preparing to sleep.

Seeking Professional Help
If these recommendations do not help you in dealing with insomnia, then it is advisable to seek medical help. A doctor can recommend whether there is any other medical or psychological factor that is causing difficulties in sleeping. They can also recommend various treatment procedures that may be applicable in this case.

You deserve a good night of sound slumber. Getting a good night's sleep might seem like a distant reality, but you can take control of your sleeping pattern. If you are having trouble sleeping, there's no better time than now to change certain habits or consult a health professional, while keeping in mind that sleep is a necessity for you to function optimally as a human being.