[Steveji17]

Hi,
I have been dealing or not with insomnia for nearly 5 months, it started after my first & only panic attack around getting tinnitus and what in Traditioanl Chinese medicine is called yin deficincy, which a symptom is insomnia. After never having any issues sleeping one day I didn’t sleep, the next was ok, the next not, then ok again for a week, I was also having sweats and vivid dreams after that constant pretty much for 2 months, anxiety, catastophising beyond measure, I thouhgt I was losing my mind. I haven’t taken chemical medication in 20+ years but I couldn’t see anyway out to break the cycle using what I thought would help. I tried OTC Nytol, didn’t really help, then perscription zopiclone, didn’t really help and made my thoughts very strange, I have been using melatonin & magnesium, california poppy, 5-htp, fenergen and have the last month had diazepam 7 times 10mg, which does give me amazing sleep, the others to varying degrees. I had a few weeks where just magnesium and melatonin were great, 6-9 hours per night, then it stopped when I stayed away from my house at y sisters. I dream alot too, sometimes crazy dreams, this was much more intense at first….I travel for work as a massage/wellness therapist and stayed in different places no problem, I have stopped as my mind is a jumbled mess, my decision making is shot, my confidence too. I walk daily, have started to jog, I had a daily yoga/breathing practice but found it harder to do with a racing mind and rubber necking/nodding off whilst practicing. I eat healthily, dont drink alcohol, I have had accupuncture, seeing a therapist, shamanic healings, somatic work for trauma.I loved sleeping, I feel I am placing to much importance on sleep and how I feel if I dont get enough, knowing that I have managed before on little sleep and very busy days/weeks. Its like I am looking for a switch that I cant find. I really want to drop the efforting that has replaced my no effort sleeping….

[Steveji17]

The anxiety and change in mood are very difficult to deal with I find, lonliness too and fear of never being able to change the situation. I was about to start new work projects but feel unable to start them due to the lack of confidence, which makes me worry about my work and income. On good days at home I feel I could work, but then something will overwhelm me quite easily….Very vicious circle at times

[Martin Reed]

Welcome to the forum.

What you are going through is really difficult and it’s not your fault and it’s not unusual. What you have described so well are common symptoms of the insomnia struggle — so you are definitely not alone (you’ll likely recognize much of your experience in the stories of others on the Insomnia Coach podcast).

The vicious cycle you described is usually a symptom of trying the same thing, over and over again. When those things don’t work, we try harder. And, around and around we go.

Ultimately, the more we try to control sleep the more difficult it becomes. To break out of the cycle, a new approach might be needed.

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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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