Insomnia Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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insomnia
[ɪnˈsɒm.ni.ə ]
Definition
sleep disorder
Insomnia is a common sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early and not being able to go back to sleep. People with insomnia often experience daytime sleepiness, fatigue, mood disturbances, and difficulty concentrating. This condition can be acute, lasting for a short period, or chronic, affecting sleep for a month or more. Various factors, including stress, anxiety, medical conditions, and environmental factors, can contribute to insomnia.
Synonyms
restlessness, sleeplessness, wakefulness.
Examples of usage
- After weeks of insomnia, she finally sought help from a doctor.
- His insomnia made it difficult for him to be productive at work.
- Many people turn to sleeping pills to manage their insomnia.
- Journaling before bed helped him cope with his insomnia.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Health
- Chronic insomnia can lead to serious health issues like anxiety, depression, and weakened immune functions.
- Sleep deprivation can affect cognitive functions, making it harder to concentrate and remember things.
Cultural References
- Insomnia is a common theme in literature and film, often symbolizing a struggle or inner conflict, as seen in the works of authors like Shakespeare and modern films like 'Fight Club'.
- Many songs and poems explore the frustrations of sleeplessness, expressing feelings of loneliness or existential thoughts.
Psychology
- Anxiety and stress are major contributing factors, as worries can keep the mind active when it should be resting.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy has been shown to be effective in treating insomnia by addressing thought patterns and behaviors related to sleep.
Statistics
- It is estimated that about 30% of adults experience occasional insomnia, with 10% suffering from chronic insomnia.
- Sleep studies indicate that people who are more prone to insomnia often have irregular sleep schedules and lifestyle factors that disrupt their rest.
Origin of 'insomnia'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Latin, where 'in-' means 'not' and 'somnus' means 'sleep'.
- It was first used in the medical field around the early 20th century, reflecting an increasing understanding of sleep disorders.
The word 'insomnia' originates from the Latin 'insomnia', which combines 'in-' (meaning 'not') and 'somnus' (meaning 'sleep'). The term was first used in English in the early 17th century to refer to a condition of sleeplessness. Historically, insomnia was seen not just as a medical issue but as a moral failing or a sign of mental disturbance. Over the centuries, the understanding of insomnia has evolved, with advancements in psychology and medicine leading to recognition of it as a legitimate health concern. In contemporary medicine, insomnia is recognized as a syndrome that can occur on its own or as a symptom of other health issues. The growing awareness and research into sleep health have established a more nuanced understanding of insomnia, incorporating physical, psychological, and social factors.