Objective: To investigate the links between life events and sleep disorders in the general population. Patients and methods: The 2005 Life Events and Health (EVS) survey conducted face-to-face interviews with 10,000 people aged 18 to 75 living in France in ordinary households (excluding institutions). This representative survey examines health, experiences of violence, and difficult life events occurring throughout the lifespan. Results: Approximately four in ten people report experiencing at least one sleep disorder—among the five main symptoms of insomnia—on a recurring basis. These disorders appear linked to financial difficulties and age, although their nature differs depending on the age group considered. The feeling of fatigue upon waking, in particular, seems to encompass a wide range of situations that affect younger generations more. Experiences of violence appear to be events that contribute to the onset of regular sleep disorders, though with some nuances depending on the nature of the violence. Discussion: While gender also appears linked to the onset of sleep disorders, modeling reveals that women are not more vulnerable for hormonal or genetic reasons, but because they assume a social role that may impact their quality of life, particularly in terms of mental distress. Conclusion: Sleep disorders are linked to precarious living situations and certain difficult life events, such as experiencing violence. Given equivalent mental health, men and women would be equally affected by sleep issues.