Living with insomnia feels like being trapped in a cycle of exhaustion. You’re tired to the bone—your mind foggy, your body heavy—but when you finally lie down to rest, sleep just won’t come. This paradox of being worn out but unable to sleep is what makes insomnia so frustrating and distinct from other sleep disorders.

Unlike conditions such as sleep apnea or narcolepsy, which cause people to fall asleep unexpectedly during the day, chronic insomnia keeps you awake despite feeling utterly drained. People with insomnia can go days or even weeks sleeping only a few hours each night, yet never feel truly sleepy.

Insomnia is considered chronic when it happens three or more nights per week and lasts longer than three months. Over time, it impacts every aspect of daily life—from your focus and mood to your relationships and physical health.

Common Symptoms of Insomnia

Living with long-term insomnia can lead to a wide range of emotional, physical, and cognitive symptoms, including:

  • Persistent fatigue and low energy

  • Trouble concentrating, remembering, or focusing

  • Irritability, mood swings, or anxiety

  • Decreased performance at work or school

  • Daytime tiredness without the ability to nap

  • Low motivation to socialize or be active

  • Increased mistakes or minor accidents

  • Constant worry about not sleeping enough

Real Stories from People with Insomnia

For many, insomnia begins with a stressful period and evolves into a long-term struggle.

Jo Dickison, 38, developed insomnia during a family conflict in 2003. Over the years, she’s tried nearly everything—sleep hygiene, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), medication, and quitting caffeine. Yet, she sometimes still sleeps fewer than four hours a night.

“People don’t get it,” Dickison said. “I’m exhausted but can’t nap. I’m too tired to go out or socialize—not because I’ll fall asleep, but because I just don’t have the energy to deal with people.”

This constant fatigue without drowsiness is one of insomnia’s cruelest effects—it leaves people too drained to function but not tired enough to rest.

Rebecca Wiseman, 26, began experiencing insomnia during pregnancy with her second set of twins. Even after her babies started sleeping through the night, she couldn’t.

“I’m tired and get headaches all the time,” Wiseman shared. “My doctor says it’s from lack of sleep. I don’t have the energy to play with my older girls, and it’s caused tension with my husband. We argue about little things like chores because I’m always so worn out.”

Insomnia doesn’t just disrupt sleep—it strains relationships, parenting, and mental health. The exhaustion builds up, affecting patience, empathy, and emotional stability.

The Toll of Chronic Sleep Deprivation

Chronic insomnia takes a serious toll on the body and mind. Lack of sleep increases stress hormones, weakens immunity, and elevates the risk of several long-term health problems, including:

  • Depression and anxiety

  • Obesity and type 2 diabetes

  • Heart disease and high blood pressure

  • Memory and focus issues

Emotional burnout is just as damaging. People often describe feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or trapped in constant fatigue. Even simple tasks—like grocery shopping or having a conversation—can feel impossible.

When To Seek Help

If you’ve been struggling to sleep for months and it’s affecting your energy, focus, or relationships, it’s time to reach out for help. A healthcare provider can evaluate underlying causes, such as anxiety, medication side effects, or lifestyle factors, and recommend safe treatment options.

Effective approaches may include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I)

  • Sleep hygiene improvements (consistent bedtime, limiting screens, and reducing caffeine)

  • Relaxation techniques like breathing exercises or guided imagery

  • Short-term medication if prescribed by a professional

You don’t have to accept exhaustion as normal. With the right support, it’s possible to retrain your body and mind for restful, restorative sleep.

A Quick Review

People with chronic insomnia live in a constant state of fatigue without true sleepiness. Unlike other sleep disorders, insomnia robs you of rest even when you’re desperate to sleep. Over time, it affects not only energy and mood but also relationships and long-term health.

If you’re always tired but can’t sleep, don’t ignore the signs. Talk to your healthcare provider about treatments like CBT-I, stress management, or medical evaluation. Restoring sleep can help you regain balance, clarity, and a healthier life.