[ams5174]

I’ve been a stay-at-home mom for the last 10 years (3 kids who are now 11, 8, and 6.) In 2025 I re-entered the workforce, typically working one 12-hour shift/wk in the medical field. I’ve always been a great sleeper, but for the first time in my life began suffering from sleep issues on the nights before I worked. Sometimes I would only sleep 2 hours before needing to go into work, and that was taking Benadryl or Zzquil, which btw didn’t really do much but sometimes would kick me into sleep… at 3am. Talk about bad timing. I trudged through for months and it didn’t raise a huge red flag for me (even though it was awful) because I knew I would sleep good on the other nights and catch up. Well, recently I’ve picked up 2 more days each week of work. I’m finding performing multiple days with bad sleep is taking a toll on me. I found your podcasts which have been so amazing to listen to, and also subscribed to your emails. I do all the usual sleep hygiene things, and even have seen my PCP for 2 different sleep medicines which are not at all for me. I find on the nights before I work, my thoughts race and my mind won’t shut off, even though I am physically tired. I work in 2 days which means I have one more night without stress. I’m already starting to stew on the upcoming 3 nights of sleep before work this week. I have learned from your podcasts so far that I need to take the pressure off myself, and if I don’t sleep, I will manage the day like I have in the past. I do put a LOT of pressure on both myself and my family on the nights before I work. My husband will even go sleep in the other room, the kids know not to bother me if possible (how sad), and I get in bed with plenty of time to spare, only to lay there for hours and hours. I’ve got my melatonin, magnesium spray, white noise, cool room and weighted blanket. I know I need to take the pressure off and accept fate with whatever happens and maybe almost…dare I say… plan to not sleep. ? I just wanted to post my story to see if someone can relate. I am listening to Rebecca’s podcast now, who I can resonate with (medical field), but honestly, I’ve resonated with every single one I’ve listened to so far. I’m so gald I found you.

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