Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) Practice Exam

What is a common symptom of insomnia as described in the provided information?

1. Frequent nightmares

2. Difficulty maintaining sleep

3. Excessive sleepiness during the day

4. Rarely waking up during the night

The correct answer is: Difficulty maintaining sleep

Difficulty maintaining sleep is a well-documented symptom of insomnia. This condition often manifests as the inability to stay asleep throughout the night, which can lead to waking up multiple times or experiencing unrestful sleep. Individuals suffering from insomnia may find themselves waking up too early or having trouble falling back asleep after waking up, which disrupts their overall sleep quality. This symptom emphasizes the challenge of achieving continuous, restorative sleep, which is crucial for physical and mental well-being. Recognizing difficulty in maintaining sleep is essential in assessing insomnia because it directly impacts a person's daily functioning and quality of life. In contrast, while excessive sleepiness during the day is related to insomnia, it is more of a consequence rather than a direct symptom of the disorder itself. Frequent nightmares can occur in various sleep disorders but are not specifically indicative of insomnia. Lastly, rarely waking up during the night would not align with insomnia, as it suggests a normal sleep pattern rather than the disrupted sleep associated with this condition.