[Dominic-D]

Every night I take a hot shower and few over the counter sleep aids to get me to fall asleep. I sleep for 4-6 hours then awaken (always an earlier awakening than I need). This has been a long struggle, the insomnia used to be even worse than this. But I still need to get my sleep to a better place. A quality sleep with the ability to not awaken super early unable to return to sleep. Where do I begin?

[Scott]

Hey @Dominic-D!

Welcome to the forum! Based on what you mentioned, your sleep has improved and you’re now able to get up to 6 hours of sleep at night. This is evidence that you haven’t lost the ability to sleep! If you feel fatigued the next day after getting 6 hours of sleep, I encourage you to continue to be active and enjoy your day (continue attending social events, have a glass of wine at dinner, avoid daytime naps, etc). When we experiment with ways to correct our sleep by implementing new bedtime strategies (taking a hot shower, turning off lights 1 hr before bedtime, etc) it usually heightens our anxiety towards sleep and makes sleep even more difficult.

It’s helpful to go to bed only when you’re sleepy and consistently get out of bed at the same time each morning, even on the weekends. This behavior builds a strong sleep drive which can make it easier to fall asleep and overcome sleep anxiety. What time do you typically go to bed and start your day the next morning?

Scott J

—

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