[DenVanZZZ]

Hi Martin, thank you for your understanding and sharing.
I have had sleeplessness since an abusive marriage/ divorce to an alcoholic narcissist 20 yrs ago. I’ve done so many therapeutic approaches but have bottomed out with ineffective medication.(s)
My daughter did SRT 2 yrs ago and it’s worked for her. (She uses pharma as needed w/o the drama.)
I’m starting SRT w/CBTI this Friday. The anticipation of this has thrown me into much anxiety and more sleeplessness undermining myself by worrying about the hazard of working with an infant and 2 yr old safely while getting very little sleep. I’ve been sleepless a lot for the 2 yrs. of my current nanny work. The sleep medication of 50 mg. seroquel (knock off) enabled me to function the next day. It doesn’t give me sleep though. Medication is not the answer. It frightens me that I will become psychotic it feels unsafe driving already at times.

I found you Martin, and you have been quite helpful, answering many anxiety type questions like “during SRT when is the time to get out of bed and when to stay in bed zoning, hoping to get more zzzzs? You give a broad emotional support parameter in your mentoring which is what anxious folks need.

I’m doing sleep diaries which are recordings of nightly occurrences, made by clocking hrs through the night. That exact activity has adversely effected my sleep for yrs.: Now I know estimation is fine. No anxiety.

I haven’t read your other emails yet but I’m still wondering what your ‘philosophy’ is on using medications during SRT if you’ve used them for a long time. My goal is to sleep restoratively without anxiety not using medication. I’d like clarity on your approach concerning using medication during SRT. Thank you for your time. You are definitely a great lifeline!
PS I have more questions. The feedback loop is fantastic.

[Martin Reed]

Welcome to the forum! My philosophy when it comes to implementing evidence-based techniques while also taking medication is this — the techniques will almost certainly be helpful, regardless of whether you are taking medication or not!

That’s because these techniques help to address the root cause and perpetuating factors behind chronic insomnia — our thoughts and behaviors!

When I work with clients, some decide to quit medication right from the start, others taper or quit when they feel ready to do so. I don’t think it matters either way (since no medication generates sleep) — but it is, of course, important to discuss any potential changes to medication with your doctor first!

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If you are ready to stop struggling with insomnia you can enroll in the online insomnia coaching course right now! If you would prefer ongoing phone or video coaching calls as part of a powerful three month program that will help you reclaim your life from insomnia, consider applying for the Insomnia Mastery program.

The content of this post is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, disorder, or medical condition. It should never replace any advice given to you by your physician or any other licensed healthcare provider. Insomnia Coach LLC offers coaching services only and does not provide therapy, counseling, medical advice, or medical treatment. All content is provided “as is” and without warranties, either express or implied.

[DenVanZZZ]

Thanks for the feedback Martin That’s helpful in a real way The CBTI that I apply definitely takes the anxiety down notches. That is providing me with coming to the ‘ no meds’ potential phase. I was catastrophising worries entering the SRT phase until I utilized a meditation to relieve stress and proved to myself that I can get enough sleep and be functional the next day. Right now still using a medication. Aiming for completely off in the next months.

[Martin Reed]

Sounds like you have a clear plan in place! Thanks for sharing that you are finding the techniques you are implementing are helping to turn the anxiety down a few notches! Remember that it’s OK to worry — all human beings do 🙂

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If you are ready to stop struggling with insomnia you can enroll in the online insomnia coaching course right now! If you would prefer ongoing phone or video coaching calls as part of a powerful three month program that will help you reclaim your life from insomnia, consider applying for the Insomnia Mastery program.

The content of this post is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, disorder, or medical condition. It should never replace any advice given to you by your physician or any other licensed healthcare provider. Insomnia Coach LLC offers coaching services only and does not provide therapy, counseling, medical advice, or medical treatment. All content is provided “as is” and without warranties, either express or implied.

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