Causes of Fatigue Slideshow Pictures Take the Sleep Quiz! Foods That Help or Harm Your Sleep Slideshow Pictures

Pharmacy Author:

Annette (Gbemudu) Ogbru, PharmD, MBA

Annette (Gbemudu) Ogbru, PharmD, MBA

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Medical and Pharmacy Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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Who Is at Risk of Insomnia?

Women: Women are much more likely to experience insomnia due to hormonal reasons than are men. Insomnia may occur due to the menstrual cycle (due to discomfort and pain) or menopause (due to night sweats and hot flashes which may disrupt sleep)

Elderly (Over 60 years of Age): Insomnia increases with age which may be attributed to greater psychosocial stressors, losses, and medical illnesses.

People with Mental Health Disorders: Many disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder disrupt sleep.

People Experiencing Stress: Different variations of stress may cause either transient or short term insomnia and lead to chronic insomnia such as death of a loved one, financial issues etc.

Long Distance Travelers: Travelling across multiple time zones and experience jet lag can cause insomnia.

Night Shift Employees: Working at night or frequently changing shifts increases one's risk of insomnia.