When is poor sleep normal, and when is it not?

Short answer
Poor sleep is normal when it’s occasional and short-lived.

What’s usually happening
Life events and routine changes temporarily affect sleep.

What this is usually not

• a sleep disorder

• something dangerous

Common reasons

• busy periods

• travel

• temporary stress

What usually helps

• returning to routine

• time

When to pay attention
If poor sleep is persistent, worsening, or affects daily life.

If your poor sleep feels different, return to main poor sleep page.