What is primary insomnia characterized by?

Primary insomnia is characterized by problems in initiating or maintaining sleep. This condition is not caused by other medical conditions or psychological issues but stands alone as a disorder. Individuals experiencing primary insomnia typically have difficulty falling asleep at the beginning of the night and may also struggle to stay asleep, resulting in non-restorative sleep and daytime impairment.

Unlike insomnia related to psychological issues or other medical conditions, primary insomnia does not stem from underlying health problems or significant psychological distress. The symptoms can persist over time, leading to frustration and further complications in an individual’s daily life. Thus, the focus on difficulty with sleep initiation and maintenance defines primary insomnia clearly and distinguishes it from other types of sleep disturbances. The temporary nature of sleep deprivation does not apply here since primary insomnia can be chronic and is not necessarily tied to a transient experience.