Today’s fast-paced society has resulted in many Americans now suffering occasionally with insomnia. However, there are many people, especially women who are now suffering from insomnia at higher rates. In spite of using medications and changing one’s diet and even seen a psychologist, many people still have to deal with this enemy of rest, sleep, and relaxation.

Insomnia, for varying reasons, can have numerous negative effects on the quality of life of the sufferer. It can affect one’s relationships, physical health, and emotional well-being. In spite of these, insomnia can still be of benefit, depending on one’s outlook and management. Though some people have serious causes for their insomnia (health and mental), many people who suffer from insomnia are basically healthy, but still contend with it. So, I have compiled a short list of insomnia’s benefits (yes, I said benefits!) for those who choose to employ them. These can be used as part of an Insomniac’s Survival Kit.

Now, let us examine three beneficial aspects of insomnia that I discovered through necessity and survival. If you adopt these outlook and practices, you, too, can survive its negative effects.

I. Insomnia can stimulate Productivity. When I first began to deal with sleepless nights, I spent most of the time lamenting the fact that I was tired and could not sleep. This made the nights even more unbearable and unending. So, I decided that I had to do something or I would unravel emotionally from the misery. I began to use the night time to complete work related tasks (especially writing) and other household chores and responsibilities. In this way, if I had to stay up at least something got accomplished. I started to leave certain things unattended to, so that I would have something to do until my body allowed me to sleep.

II. Insomnia can stimulate Personal Growth. I know it sounds hokey, but it is true. Because insomnia leaves you feeling vulnerable and alone (since others are asleep), you can have time to consider your life and its direction. You have time to consider relationships and family, which could prove to be of great benefit.

III. Insomnia can stimulate Pleasure and Appreciation. Simply put, you will find a greater pleasure and appreciation for times of rest, especially the glorious sleep that others take for granted. Personally, when I am able to rest and sleep well, those are some of the best times of my day. It may sound simple, but it does provide some comfort in spite of the many of nights of sleeplessness and restlessness.

There you have it! These may not be for everyone. But I have discovered a way to look beyond the misery and discomfort and improve my quality of living. Can insomnia be a pain? The answer is a resounding, “YES!” However, if you make efforts to change your outlook, you, too, can discover some beneficial aspects to insomnia.

If this does not help, there is always the emergency survival kit: DONUTS, DRUGS (legal, of course), and sheer DETERMINATION. LOL!