MMH Men’s Mental Health does not provide direct mental health support. We do not offer crisis intervention, therapy, counselling, or medical advice. Instead, we provide information and signposting to external services that may be able to help.

Insomnia
Struggling with overwhelming thoughts? There’s always someone ready to listen.
Need to talk?
Samaritans are here to listen, 24/7, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org
Prefer to Text?
Shout is a free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging support service for anyone who is struggling to cope.
If you feel in danger please call 999 or go directly to emergency services.
Insomnia: I Can’t Get No Sleep
Struggling to fall asleep? Waking up multiple times during the night? Feeling exhausted even after a full night in bed? Insomnia is one of the most common sleep disorders in men, and its effects go far beyond feeling tired.
📌 Over time, poor sleep can impact your mental and physical health, increasing stress, anxiety, and even the risk of long-term health conditions.
If sleepless nights are affecting your daily life, recognizing the causes and symptoms can help you take steps toward better sleep.
What Is Insomnia?
Insomnia is a persistent difficulty in falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early, even when the opportunity for sleep exists. It can be:
🔹 Acute Insomnia – Short-term, often triggered by stress, life changes, or anxiety.
🔹 Chronic Insomnia – Long-term, lasting three months or more, often linked to mental health issues, lifestyle habits, or medical conditions.
📌 For men, work stress, financial pressure, and personal responsibilities are common triggers for sleeplessness.
What Causes Insomnia?
Insomnia can be triggered by psychological, physiological, and lifestyle factors. Common causes include:
🔹 Stress & Anxiety – Work stress, financial worries, and racing thoughts can make it difficult to fall asleep.
🔹 Mental Health Issues – Depression, PTSD, and trauma are often linked to sleep disturbances.
🔹 Substance Use – Alcohol, caffeine, and stimulants like cocaine can interfere with the sleep cycle.
🔹 Poor Sleep Habits – Irregular schedules, screen time before bed, and late-night meals can disrupt natural sleep patterns.
🔹 Medical Conditions – Chronic pain, sleep apnea, and respiratory issues can prevent restful sleep.
📌 Understanding what’s causing your insomnia is the first step toward finding a solution.
What Are the Symptoms of Insomnia?
Insomnia affects energy levels, mood, and daily functioning. Common symptoms include:
🟠 Sleep-Related Symptoms
Difficulty falling asleep – Taking more than 30 minutes to drift off.
Frequent waking – Waking up multiple times during the night.
Waking too early – Struggling to stay asleep until morning.
🟠 Daytime Symptoms
Fatigue & sluggishness – Feeling drained even after a full night in bed.
Difficulty concentrating – Struggling with focus, memory, and decision-making.
🟠 Emotional Symptoms
Irritability & mood swings – Increased frustration, anxiety, or even anger.
Low motivation – Feeling unmotivated or disconnected from daily life.
📌 If insomnia persists, seeking professional guidance can help address underlying causes and improve sleep quality.
The Different Types of Insomnia
Insomnia can take different forms, depending on its cause and duration:
🟡 Acute Insomnia – Short-term, often triggered by stress or life changes.
🟡 Chronic Insomnia – Lasts at least three nights a week for three months or more, linked to long-term stress or medical conditions.
🟡 Onset Insomnia – Difficulty falling asleep at the beginning of the night, often caused by anxiety, caffeine, or overstimulation.
🟡 Maintenance Insomnia – Trouble staying asleep, frequently waking during the night, often linked to depression, chronic pain, or substance use.
📌 Identifying the type of insomnia you’re experiencing can help in finding the right approach to improving sleep.
Explore More
Insomnia
- The Sleep Charity provides advice on improving sleep habits and managing insomnia through better sleep hygiene.
- Mind offers support for individuals struggling with insomnia due to mental health conditions like anxiety or depression.
- NHS provides comprehensive information on sleep health and available treatments for insomnia.
- Samaritans offers emotional support for men dealing with stress, depression, and anxiety, which often contribute to insomnia.
- Turning Point offers services for men struggling with substance abuse, which can disrupt sleep and contribute to insomnia.
While we aim to provide accurate and updated information, MMH Men’s Mental Health is not responsible for the quality, accuracy, or availability of external services linked on this page. If you notice a broken link or have a resource to suggest, let us know.
Taking Control: Steps to Help You Cope
You have more strength than you think. Here are some ways to regain control.
If your struggles persist or affect your daily life, consulting a professional is recommended.
Stick to a Schedule
Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body’s internal clock.
Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment
Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows.
Limit Stimulants
Avoid caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol in the afternoon and evening. These substances can interfere with your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Relax Before Bed
Seek Professional Help
You Are Worthy of Support.
Someone is ready to listen whenever you need them.
Take the next step:
Need to talk?
Samaritans are here to listen, 24/7. You can call them for free on 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org
Prefer texting?
Shout offers free, 24/7 confidential support. Text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258 to start a conversation or visit
www.giveusashout.org
Explore More
Looking for guidance? Browse external resources on mental health, self-care, and well-being.
Support Groups
Find connection. Join an external support group and connect with others who understand.