Insomnia (Trouble Sleeping)
Checked against current published health guidance — last reviewed 2026-09-22. See how we check.
Insomnia means regularly having trouble falling or staying asleep, and is often linked to stress, habits, or an inconsistent sleep schedule. Most cases improve with better sleep habits, but persistent insomnia affecting daily life is worth discussing with a GP.
Overview
Occasional poor sleep is normal, but insomnia is when trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking too early happens regularly and affects how you function the next day.
Common contributors include stress, an irregular sleep schedule, screen use before bed, caffeine or alcohol, an uncomfortable sleep environment, and underlying physical or mental health conditions.
What may help
- Keep a consistent sleep and wake time, even on weekends
- Avoid screens, caffeine, and heavy meals in the hour or two before bed
- Keep the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet
- If you can't sleep after 20 minutes, get up and do something calming until you feel sleepy
When to see a pharmacist or GP
- Insomnia lasting more than a few weeks
- Daytime tiredness that's affecting work, driving, or daily functioning
- Insomnia alongside low mood, anxiety, or other symptoms
- You're relying on alcohol or over-the-counter sleep aids regularly
When it could be an emergency
- Loud snoring with pauses in breathing during sleep (possible sleep apnoea) — worth assessment given links to other health risks
- Insomnia alongside thoughts of self-harm or hopelessness
- Sudden, severe sleep disruption alongside confusion or other new symptoms
If any of these apply, don't wait — check Red Flags for your country's emergency number, or go straight to your nearest emergency department.
Want more detail, tailored to your own situation?
Look up "Insomnia (Trouble Sleeping)" in the appCommon questions
How much sleep do I actually need?
Most adults need around 7–9 hours, though this varies by individual — what matters most is whether you feel rested and function well during the day.
Are sleeping tablets a good long-term solution?
Generally not — they're usually only recommended short-term, since long-term use can lead to dependence and doesn't address the underlying cause. A GP can discuss better long-term approaches, including talking therapy for insomnia (CBT-I).
Can anxiety cause insomnia?
Yes — worry and a racing mind are common causes of difficulty falling asleep; addressing the anxiety often improves sleep as a result.
Read more on the NHS website →
General information only, last checked 2026-09-22 — not medical advice and not a diagnosis. This page doesn't cover every cause or every person's situation; for anything specific to you or someone in your care, speak to a pharmacist, GP, or other qualified professional. Content is checked against current published guidance from official public health sources — see how we check. Be Health Wise is part of the Be Wise family of apps.