Insomnia is one of the disorders related to sleeplessness. Disturbance to normal sleeping patterns is not a stand alone disorder but a mere symptom. By definition, it is the difficulty in initiating or maintaining sleep, or may be both.

Since insomnia is not a disease, it can’t be diagnose. Insomnia is caused by a number of factors such as: stress, mental disorders like anxiety and depression, and poor sleeping habits. Changes in your surroundings such as noise, lights, or cushion; stimulants like caffeine, alcohol or drugs; and other health problems can also cause insomnia.

Treatment for insomnia varies depending on the cause. If you have breathing problems, experiencing stress or other mental disorders, or any other medial conditions, treating those first may help you sleep better.

If it is just a minor insomnia, the one caused by lifestyle, then you might want to reassess you regular routines.

§         Here are some tips that can help you avert lifestyle-brought insomnia.

§         Go to bed and wake up same time every time.

§         If possible, avoid substances that contain stimulants like coffee, alcohol, or cigarettes several hours before going to sleep.

§         Avoid or shorten daytime naps.

§         Exercise regularly (but be sure that you have already cooled down three to four hours before going to sleep)

Some people may need to take medicine to initiate sleep and stay asleep. But these sedatives are not recommended because of possible changes in lifestyle and behavior.