Insomnia is one of the commonest of all sleep disorders and is characterized by frequent interruptions to sleep, restlessness, shorter than usual sleeping time and occasionally by complete wakefulness.

Aside from being very annoying, insomnia can result in sufferers losing their energy and enthusiasm, developing memory and concentration difficulties and feeling lethargic and frustrated. In turn this can lead to a reduction in work productivity and to accidents which may well have serious consequences.

There are lots of different things which cause insomnia but here are just 6 which are commonly seen:

1. The Environment. Our environment is extremely important when it comes to getting a good night's sleep and things like light, noise or extremes of temperature can cause insomnia.

2. Substance Abuse. Possible the most obvious of all forms of substance abuse in relation to insomnia is coffee and other drinks such as tea and colas which contain high levels of caffeine. Another commonly accepted cause is smoking with heavy smokers consuming more than enough nicotine to result in problems sleeping. What is possibly not so well known however is that this list of substances is extensive and even boasts several herbal remedies used for a wide range of diverse problems and which can produce insomnia as a side effect. We should also not forget alcohol. Although it is certainly true that alcohol can frequently make you feel tired at first once it has been metabolized it will also keep you wide awake.

3. The Body Clock. We all have our own body clock or biological clock which works to regulate the sleep/wake cycle. If this body clock is upset by things like partying all night, burning the midnight oil studying in college or jet setting around the world on holiday or for business, then you will experience sleeping difficulties while your body clock re-adjusts.

4. Activities Prior To Bedtime. There are a number of things which can lead to insomnia if they happen within a reasonably short time of going to bed. Two of the most common are taking vigorous exercise shortly before retiring or eating a large meal when you are just about to go to bed. Both of these activities stimulate the body's metabolism and thus keep you awake.

5. Health Problems. There is a long list of health problems which are well known to induce insomnia and this list includes heart failure, diabetes, hyperthyroidism and ulcers. Asthma too is increasingly being seen cause of insomnia, as are such things as the need for frequent visits to the bathroom, heartburn and chronic pain arising out of such conditions as arthritis and leg cramps. There are also other sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, which lead to as well as a range of psychiatric conditions.

6. Emotional Problems. Almost all of us suffer from emotional distress occasionally and this can frequently lead to such things as anxiety or anger. But, if we keep our feelings to ourselves instead of talking about them and seeking a solution to them then this commonly results in insomnia.

Help-Me-To-Sleep.com provides information on insomnia including details of a range of insomnia symptoms