What Are the Root Causes of Insomnia and Other Mental Health Issues?

What is the root cause of all mental health issues? While there may not be a universally accepted answer, each school of psychology offers its own perspective. Drawing from my experience in conducting over 1,000 paid consultations related to insomnia over the past four years, I'd like to share my personal insights based on both professional practice and daily observations.

Understanding Mental Health Through Awareness

My approach to insomnia primarily involves Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Morita Therapy, which leads me to analyze mental health issues through a cognitive lens. In my view, the core reason individuals struggle with mental health is a lack of awareness or understanding of the problem itself. It's often a case of being unfamiliar with the nature of psychological distress—what some might call "rarely seeing and thus easily startled."

The Power of Awareness and Forgiveness

Take anxiety and inner turmoil, for instance. Many people remain trapped in these states because they don't understand how neuroses work. They respond with fear, avoidance, and resistance, trying to suppress symptoms through sheer willpower. However, once they learn about the principles behind anxiety—particularly the vicious cycle of "the more you try to control it, the worse it gets"—they often feel a sense of relief and clarity. Some even experience immediate improvements in sleep and mood after reading an informative article or book.

I call this "mental awakening" or awareness. Once achieved, it naturally leads to forgiveness—of oneself and the situation. When we understand that anxiety and obsessive thoughts are not only normal but also temporary, we can stop resisting them. This acceptance allows us to coexist with our symptoms, reduce internal conflict, and begin the healing process. With time, our minds regain peace, and our mental energy is no longer drained by constant self-fighting. (Of course, in severe cases, medical intervention may be necessary.)

Common Struggles: From Insomnia to Family Dynamics

Anxiety and insomnia often persist due to a lack of understanding, which fuels fear and resistance. Without awareness, true forgiveness and self-acceptance are impossible, leading to ongoing mental distress.

Let's consider another example: the relationship between a daughter-in-law and her mother-in-law. When a young woman understands the generational context and traditional child-rearing practices of her mother-in-law, she can approach the situation with more empathy. This awareness reduces resistance and conflict. Similarly, conflicts with parents, partners, children, bosses, or coworkers often stem from a lack of mutual understanding. When both sides believe they are right and demand change from the other, tensions escalate, leading to emotional pain and mental health issues.

Depression: A Battle Without Understanding

While depression has biological components, many sufferers worsen their condition by resisting symptoms and fearing their presence. They push themselves to recover quickly, unaware that such pressure only deepens their suffering. However, if they understand that depression is a common, treatable condition that offers a chance to re-evaluate harmful habits and beliefs, they can begin to forgive themselves. By allowing time for healing—both mentally and with the help of medication—they can achieve inner peace and restore normal functioning. (Please note that while I haven't personally experienced depression, I welcome any feedback or corrections from those who have.)

The Role of Awareness in Healing

Awareness is a lifelong journey. Philosophies like Taoism and Buddhism emphasize mindfulness and acceptance, which can help individuals avoid many psychological pitfalls. As the saying goes, "True understanding of the world is wisdom, and mastery of human relations is art."

How Our Origins Shape Us

Another major factor in mental health is the influence of our upbringing. Our personalities and cognitive patterns are deeply shaped by our family background—sometimes even tracing back multiple generations. While personal growth through learning is possible, it's often a difficult and long-term endeavor.

In my own life, I experienced several dynamics that contributed to my mental health struggles:

Constant Criticism: Growing up, I was held to high standards and rarely praised. Even minor mistakes were highlighted, which fueled self-doubt and overthinking—key contributors to insomnia.
Emotional Alertness: I was often scolded for errors, which led to chronic anxiety and physical tension. This state of hypervigilance closely mirrors the mindset of someone fearing sleeplessness.
Repressed Joy: I rarely celebrated achievements because even positive actions were met with criticism. This suppression of happiness contributed to long-term emotional suppression and later, depression.
Learned Behavior: My parents' indecisiveness and over-preparation influenced my own cautious and hesitant approach to life. Their lack of social engagement also affected my ability to build friendships.

Breaking the Cycle

Once I recognized the origins and logic behind my struggles, I stopped blaming myself or my parents. They, too, were likely shaped by their own upbringing. Viewing these traits through a different lens, I found some silver linings—like a strong work ethic, resilience, and attention to detail. The key is breaking the cycle so that these patterns don't continue into the next generation. Awareness was the turning point that allowed me to heal.

Seeking Professional Help

Today, I collaborate with experts across various mental health fields. If you're struggling with emotional or psychological issues, reaching out for support can be life-changing. Here are some specialized areas where professional guidance can make a difference:

Mental Health: From anxiety and depression to insomnia, OCD, and bipolar disorder, experienced therapists and medical professionals (including senior physicians from Huilongguan Hospital and Peking University Sixth Hospital) can provide both therapy and medication when needed.
Crisis Intervention: Whether coping with loss, trauma, or suicide prevention, trained specialists can offer critical support during life's most difficult moments.
Youth and Family: Issues like school refusal, teenage rebellion, internet addiction, parenting strategies, autism, and ADHD can be addressed with expert guidance.
Relationships: From dating dilemmas and emotional crises to postpartum depression and pre-marriage concerns, relationship experts can offer clarity and support.
Work and Study: Whether choosing a major, dealing with burnout, workplace conflicts, or harassment, career and academic consultants can help navigate these challenges.
Personal Development: Healing from childhood trauma, overcoming past wounds, and supporting women's growth are all areas where therapists can provide meaningful support.
Social Skills: From improving communication to overcoming people-pleasing tendencies and learning nonviolent communication techniques, social coaches can enhance interpersonal relationships.
Sexual Health: Experts can also help with intimacy issues, erectile dysfunction, and low libido, offering a safe space for discussion and healing.

If you're looking for more resources, feel free to follow "Youlai Psychological" for regular mental health insights and educational content.