Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) Practice Exam

What is the most common single symptom associated with insomnia?

1. Difficulty maintaining sleep

2. Difficulty falling asleep

3. A combination of symptoms

4. Waking up too early

The correct answer is: Difficulty maintaining sleep

The most common single symptom associated with insomnia is difficulty maintaining sleep. This symptom refers to the inability to stay asleep through the night, leading to frequent awakenings and difficulty returning to sleep. It forms a central part of the clinical definition of insomnia, where individuals often report that they can fall asleep initially but struggle to stay asleep, which can significantly impact their overall quality of life. Individuals experiencing this symptom often feel tired or fatigued during the day due to poor-quality sleep. This symptom is particularly prevalent among those with chronic insomnia, where the challenges of maintaining sleep can create a cycle that exacerbates anxiety and stress around sleeping. While difficulty falling asleep, waking up too early, and a combination of symptoms are all relevant to the broader experience of insomnia, the challenge of maintaining sleep is a distinct and frequently reported complaint among those seeking help for insomnia-related issues. Thus, it captures a primary concern in the understanding and treatment of insomnia.