Chronic insomnia experience over a period of months or years is a complex disorder with many possible causes. Some common causes of chronic insomnia include psychological depression, anxiety, stress and poor sleep hygiene. Tips for good sleep hygiene include keeping regular bed and rising times, going to bed only when sleepy and getting regular exercise. Tobacco, alcohol and caffeine all disturb sleep and should be avoided, especially around bedtime. People who work night shifts are especially prone to develop chronic insomnia.
Insomnia is the inability to sleep.
It affects people of all ages and typically lasts for a night or two. In extreme cases, insomnia can last for weeks, months and even years. Most cases of brief insomnia are triggered by the anticipation of an upcoming event. Changes of schedule and brief illness my also interrupt sleep temporarily. Insomnia that lasts two to three weeks often develops during periods of severe stress at home or work.