Your insomnia is associated with a life-changing event, such as the loss of a job or a loved one. You may need sleep medication for a brief period.

You experience disturbed sleep for more than a month without apparent cause. You may need referral to a sleep-disorder specialist to test for underlying physical ailments.

You have been taking medication for more than a few nights without success. Your sleep medication may not be effective. You may be at risk of becoming addicted to the medication.

You never seem to get enough sleep and fall asleep without warning during the day. You may be suffering from narcolepsy.