Forum Replies Created
-
Posts
-
Thanks very much, Matin. This has all been very helpful. You’ve persuaded me to get back into CBT-I. I’ll immediately cease wearing my Apple Watch (sleep tracker) at night and turn off the bedroom clock! I’ll do your introductory course this week, and then contact you for one-on-one coaching. Thanks again.
Thanks, Martin.
Q1 – I like the tracker because it’s helping me to map out what’s happening through the night. I was hoping that there might be research results available that isolate causes of chronic insomnia (the Drs have diagnosed this) such that individual profiles could be matched to causes. For example, what is it that causes me to wake up after such a short time (30-45 mins)? I read part of a University research paper earlier today that said the results from Apple watch/Autosleep were, indeed, quite accurate and will provide a basis for comparative research – but unfortunately, it’s early days yet. I do take your point, though, that such devices can themselves lead to sleep-related worry. I don’t think this is the case with me at the moment, but I certainly acknowledge the potential for it to become one.
Q2 – I honestly don’t know the answer to this. I thought it would be easy to slot back into it – I had kept detailed records each night (part of the CBT program) and filled in the daily pro-formas as required. My sleep efficiency measure was improving. I’ve tried a couple of times to re-start by forcing myself to stay up very late (post-midnight) but I just lie wide awake. I’ve done all of the environmental things as well as ensuring no coffee after 3.00 pm (I’ve even tried two months completely caffeine free, all to no avail).
I’m sorry that it’s a complicated situation!
Thanks very much for your prompt reply, Martin.
Q1 – Yes, I am very much aware of being awake for long periods at a time. I don’t feel stressed or worry during those times. It just seems as though my brain “won’t turn off”!
Q2 – The main benefit of the CBT was an improvement in getting to sleep (mostly). I was definitely making progress which was interrupted by a short period away when my wife and I stayed at a hotel. The hotel room environment was not really conducive to the late bedtime (midnight) that was part of the CBT. I thought that I’d be able to get back into the routine once we got home, but it didn’t happen. I have tried since to start the whole thing over again, but I’ve had little success so far.
