[Andrea]

I have general anxiety disorder and since then, my sleep has also decreased. I am medicated but I want to be able to sleep through the night without waking up every two hours and sometimes not being able to fall asleep again.
I am trying meditation (mindfulness) which has helped a little, I’m new to it, so I still need more practice. It does help me live in the moment. I’m also trying the sleep hygiene (no caffeine, no alcohol, no screens, etc) but nothing has been completely helpful. I believe I have PTSD for not being able to fall asleep, and that every night becomes a challenge for me.
Does anyone have any other tips that have helped?

[Martin Reed]

Hello Andrea and welcome to the forum! I am yet to come across someone with chronic insomnia who found sleep hygiene helpful — it often does little more than add more rules and rituals that can make things more difficult.

Ultimately, the way past insomnia is a complete willingness to experience insomnia. Easier said than done though, right? It takes practice to build skill in genuine willingness — and I think it starts by responding to wakefulness (and all the difficult thoughts and feelings that can come with it) in a more workable way.

That more workable way might involve acknowledging, observing, and allowing yourself to experience wakefulness (and any associated thoughts and feelings) without trying to fight or avoid all that difficult stuff. After all, it’s the fight — the struggle — that keeps insomnia alive and can make it so much more difficult.

I hope there’s something useful here!

—

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.

[Author]

Posts