How long must episodes of excessive sleepiness last to diagnose Hypersomnolence Disorder?

To diagnose Hypersomnolence Disorder, episodes of excessive sleepiness must persist for at least 3 months. This duration is significant because it helps differentiate between transient sleepiness that may be due to temporary factors, such as sleep deprivation or stress, versus a chronic condition that can significantly impact a person's daily life and functioning. The 3-month criterion ensures that the diagnosis is based on a pattern of symptoms that are consistent and enduring rather than isolated or short-lived occurrences. By establishing this timeframe, clinicians can more accurately assess the severity and chronicity of the sleepiness, guiding appropriate treatment and management strategies. The other options reflect durations that either do not align with the criteria for diagnosis or might suggest a more long-term condition, which is not the focus for initial diagnosis in this case.