Insomnia is very commonly encountered as a healthcare professional. In this engaging talk, Dr. Alison Bentley, international sleep expert, gives us an outline of how sleep works and the ways that insomnia manifests. She highlights the significant impact that insomnia has on people and its link to depression, cardiovascular disease and gastrointestinal disorders. Dr. Bentley discusses the misconceptions people have about sleep and then outlines the treatment options available. Among the treatment aspects addressed, Dr. Bentley considers the role of cognitive behavioural therapy and the controversies around sleeping pills.