Have you ever had a night filled with tossing and turning and there is nothing you can do to fall asleep, then you worry about having to go through tomorrow without a full tank and that makes you worry more, making sleep even less attainable? Well you’re not alone. About 30–40 percent of adults say they have some symptoms of insomnia within any given year, and about 10–15 percent of adults say they have chronic insomnia. Chronic insomnia is defined as having symptoms at least three nights per week for more than one month.

Not getting your 40 winks is serious business. Lack of sleep can cause problems during the day, such as excessive sleepiness, fatigue, a lack of energy, difficulty concentrating, depressed mood, and irritability. Due to all of these potential consequences, untreated insomnia can impair quality of life as much as, or more than, other chronic medical problems.

If you find you are consistently not getting enough sleep and have tried several home remedies and nothing is working it is time to consult your physician. Don’t just assume that nothing can be done. The four most common sleep disorders are insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea (sleep-disordered breathing), restless legs syndrome (RLS), and narcolepsy. All of these disorders can be managed better with intervention. Don’t waste another night, get the help you need.