Sleep Anxiety

I suffered with it after I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I still have insomnia though. I take 1/2 of a unisom to help get some sleep. It keeps me asleep for the night. I have tried other meds but this is what works for me.

@judybradford
Are you afraid to fall asleep or is it hard to stay asleep? Do you know what is behind your sleep anxiety and triggers?

Both. I have had so many nights where I didn't get to sleep at all. Or, I don't fall asleep until 3 or 4 am. Or, I fall asleep and wake up at 2-3 am (that's actually a GOOD night!) So I am pretty sure that is what causes my sleep anxiety. So, last night, I slept in a different place - not my usual bed - and I did OK. So that helps.

@judybradford
Have you worked with a sleep specialist, psychiatrist for medication support, psychologist for anxiety, and tried taking Calm magnesium and melatonin before sleep? Have you tried bedtime herbal teas or warm milk? Have you tried taking a warm, relaxing bath before bedtime? Do you have a dark room, white noise, cool room? Do you listen to relaxing music or tried any of the sleep meditation apps?

I would definitely look for a sleep medicine doctor and a sleep therapist. They helped me immensely.
You can also look into CBTi. Lots of good apps and info online for strategies.

Thanks, I do have an appointment with a sleep specialist, but not until March 19. There are so many people seeking help with sleep right now!

I had sleep anxiety a couple years ago. My doctor prescribed Zoloft which helped me very much. I took it for several months and when my anxiety seemed under control, I phased off it. To help relax before bed, I found a YouTube video that I'd listen to by a hypnotist, search for Paul McKenna Sleep. It helped me a lot. My Dr also prescribed Trazodone which helped make me sleepy. I also us sleep gummies called 'Hibernate" that you can buy online from Minny Grown. I usually wait for them to go on sale and stock up.