If you are in crisis: Please reach out to Korea Lifeline at 1393 or to an emergency room. You do not have to wait until your next appointment.
What the research shows
Across multiple large studies, persistent insomnia has emerged as an independent risk factor for suicidal ideation and behavior — meaning the risk remains elevated even after accounting for depression, anxiety, substance use, and prior history. The mechanisms appear to involve sleeps role in emotional regulation, cognitive flexibility, and impulse control.
What this means for patients
Insomnia is not just a quality-of-life issue. It is a serious health condition with measurable consequences for mental health and safety. Treating it well is not optional.
Warning signs to take seriously
- Persistent insomnia that has continued for months
- Worsening mood, hopelessness, or sense of being a burden
- Thoughts that life would be easier for others without you
- Increasing alcohol or sedative use
- Withdrawal from usual social connections
- Specific thoughts, plans, or means related to self-harm
Any one of these warrants a conversation — with us, with your primary physician, or with a crisis line.
How we approach insomnia in this context
- We screen for mood, anxiety, and suicidality at every initial visit
- We coordinate with psychiatry when warning signs are present
- We treat insomnia as urgently as we would any other condition with safety implications
- We do not consider insomnia treatment complete until safety is stable
What you can do tonight
If you are reading this and recognizing yourself, please consider one of the following:
- Call Korea Lifeline: 1393 (24-hour)
- Reach out to a trusted person in your life
- Visit an emergency room
- Request an urgent appointment with us or with any clinician you know
Persistent insomnia is not a sign of weakness — it is a treatable medical condition. Please ask for help.— Seoul Sleep Center