Insomnia, also known as sleeplessness, is a sleep disorder in which people have trouble sleeping.They may have difficulty falling asleep, or staying asleep as long as desired.Insomnia is typically followed by daytime sleepiness, low energy, irritability, and a depressed mood.It may result in an increased risk of motor vehicle collisions, as well as problems focusing and learning.Insomnia can be short term, lasting for days or weeks, or long term, lasting more than a month.