In regards to the discussion “Desperate to be free from dependence on Seroquel for sleep”, this discussion originally started 2 years ago but has recently generated a lot of comments.

Quality sleep is important for a healthy body. Just like eating and exercise, it takes time to develop habits that promote quality sleep. Some of these habits may include exercise earlier in the day and avoiding strenuous activity before sleeping. Gentle stretching or various types of yoga might help. Follow a healthy diet throughout the day and avoid heavy meals late in the day. Sometimes a small snack is helpful before bed or a soothing decaf beverage. A warm bath or shower can be relaxing before bed. Avoid suspenseful screen time and reading. Meditative devotionals or poetry may be better. As a Christian believer I like prayer, Psalms and Proverbs. Learning relaxation breathing techniques and positive imagery techniques can be helpful.

Unfortunately some people are unable to achieve quality sleep using just the above methods. At times a medication may become necessary. That is when a medical professional provider is absolutely essential! The provider can consider all the options, the patients’ medical history including other conditions/ medications that may affect the situation, interactions etc.

Each person should be treated as an individual. There is no such thing as “one size fits all” for treatment especially mental health treatment. Sometimes a curious thing occurs when a medication classified as one thing actually has an effect on something else. This could be a really great result or a really terrible one. It is the Dr.’s job to consider the benefits and risks of what s/he prescribes. The patient’s job is to ask questions until s/he understands the benefits & risks and is satisfied with the proposed treatment. If s/he becomes dissatisfied with a treatment the provider can help with weaning off of it and switching to something else. Sometimes after being on a particular drug for a long time the body becomes too accustomed to it and it is no longer effective. The Dr. can monitor for these problems and make necessary adjustments.