Various studies worldwide have shown the prevalence of insomnia is 10%–30% of the population, with some studies even as high as 50%–60%! It is common in older adults, females, and people with medical and mental health issues. (1)
Studies also show that insomnia negatively affects work performance, impairs decision-making, can damage relationships, increase chances of work-related/motor vehicle accidents, and lead to an overall decline in the quality of life. (2)
As you talk with your doctor, the following criteria must be met for it to be considered insomnia, rather than a short-term sleep issue:
- The problem should be present for at least 3 nights per week.
- It has occurred for at least 3 months.
- It is not the result of medication or a medical/mental disorder.
Diabetes and increasing age are significantly associated with insomnia. Hence, all diabetic patients should be screened for insomnia by the primary care physician using a self-assessment questionnaire.
A Traditional Chinese Medicine Understanding of Insomnia
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