Insomnia patients increased by 100,000 in 5 years in Korea: data

The number of people suffering from insomnia is on the rise in Korea. Especially during the hot summer months, more people report experiencing insomnia symptoms.

According to the National Health Insurance Service's statistics on diseases of public concern, the number of patients with insomnia increased from 658,675 in 2020 to 768,814 in 2024, representing a rise of approximately 110,000 over the five-year period.

The hot and humid environment, along with long daylight hours, during summer can suppress melatonin secretion and disrupt circadian rhythms. The optimal temperature for restful sleep is between 18°C and 20°C. During tropical nights, when temperatures remain above 25°C even at night, the body's temperature regulation center enters an arousal state, making it difficult to fall asleep and disrupting deep sleep.

Insomnia symptoms refer to a general decline in sleep quality as reported by patients. Common symptoms include difficulty falling asleep, frequent awakenings during sleep, difficulty returning to sleep after waking, and feeling tired upon waking, as if one had not slept well. If these symptoms persist for more than three months, it is diagnosed as “chronic insomnia,” which requires active treatment.

If there is a clear cause for insomnia, treatment for the underlying condition is prioritized. For patients with insomnia without a specific cause, symptoms can be improved through cognitive behavioral therapy, which involves enhancing sleep hygiene and addressing excessive worry about sleep or behaviors aimed at inducing sleep.

To prevent summer insomnia, it is essential to maintain regular sleep habits, allowing the body's internal clock to recognize a consistent sleep schedule. Engaging in physical activities such as exercise during the day helps accumulate sleep-inducing substances like adenosine in the brain, making it easier to fall asleep at night. Waking up at the same time every day helps stabilize the body's circadian rhythm and alleviate symptoms of insomnia.

Coffee consumed in the afternoon can also affect sleep quality. Since coffee remains in the body for approximately twelve hours, it is recommended to consume one cup before 10:30 a.m. rather than in the afternoon. While alcohol consumption before bedtime may slightly aid sleep induction, it increases fluid intake and can worsen sleep apnea, so moderation is advisable.

“Insomnia caused by hot and humid tropical nights can be an important factor that affects one’s daily condition and quality of life,” said Professor Kim Sun-young of the Department of Psychiatry at Ewha Womans University Seoul Hospital. “Before considering medication, it is advisable to first check whether sleep hygiene is being properly maintained and to correct excessive worry about sleep or attempts to force oneself to sleep.”