A healthcare provider will diagnose insomnia by taking a detailed medical history, including many questions about sleep habits. A physical exam is done to rule out other medical or mental conditions that can cause difficulty sleeping. Sometimes sleep studies can be performed to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. Insomnia is characterized as “chronic” when sleep problems occur at least 3 nights per week for at least 3 months.[1]
How is insomnia diagnosed?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Insomnia is diagnosed by a healthcare provider through a detailed medical history and physical exam to rule out other conditions; this exam may include sleep studies. Insomnia is considered "chronic" if sleep issues occur at least 3 nights per week for a minimum of 3 months.