What is a major requirement for diagnosing Insomnia Disorder?

To diagnose Insomnia Disorder, one of the key requirements is the presence of difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep for a period of more than three months. This timeframe is essential because it distinguishes chronic insomnia from short-term sleep disturbances, which may not warrant a formal diagnosis. The emphasis is on sleep issues that are persistent and recurrent, reflecting a significant pattern rather than transient sleep difficulties that might occur due to stress, changes in environment, or temporary life events.

Chronic insomnia can significantly impair daily functioning, relationships, and overall quality of life, which is why the DSM-5 specifies the duration criteria. Diagnosing insomnia requires that these symptoms are not better explained by other sleep disorders or medical conditions, indicating the complexity of sleep health and its impact on individuals.

The other options do not meet the established criteria for Insomnia Disorder, such as the requirement for symptoms to persist for over three months, which is a fundamental aspect of understanding and diagnosing this condition.