Insomnia Forum Posting

Posted by Hope Master on August 13, 2002 at 04:05:28:

In Reply to: i'm giving up posted by AJM on August 12, 2002 at 20:54:25:

Dear AJM....It is dreadful to feel the way you do.Over the last seven years of insomnia I have had many continous months of feeling so sick I didn't think I would make it either. Your body may be weak, but the negative psychological state of mind I think does more to promote this totally devastated feeling. I know it is quite dificult to feel mentally healthy at this point, as obsessiveness, anxiety, and depression definitely accompany insomniac episodes.You must try though to keep your mind and your body healthy.Try to exercise first thing in the morning, even if it is a brisk fifteen minute walk.Follow this by a good hot shower , followed by a cold 10 second splash of cold water. Eat a high protein meal or protein shake early to boost your energy. For me the quicker I get going the better. If you give yourself the luxury of lazing aroung, lethargy sets in. Remember energy creates more energy so it is best to start moving quickly. It is more difficult to keep your mind healthy. Insomnia often brings hopelessness and desperation. Just tell yourself this is just a temporary situation and tomorrow you will feel better again.As difficult as it is affirm that you feel great. You may even feel a sudden spark of inspiration as you say this. I myself after a year of finally achieving a semi- regular cycle have also had a few bad weeks. I have resorted to using Ambien on quite a few nights which although helps the anxiety reactions of the desperation of yet another sleepless night makes me feel physically ill. I often wonder if the tradeoff is worthwhile. But eventually I have a descent night which may begin a descent cycle again.I don't know how you feel about meds but maybe they could be helpful short term so that you could get back the courage to face this problem in a more relaxed way. You definietly cannot function too well on three hours of sleep a night.So do yourself a favor, if you cannot attain some sleep through your own therapies, definitely do seek some help. I do not promote meds, but I have been at that juncture, and feel that they are helpful when desperation sets in....Hope this helps..Hope

Follow Ups:

• Re: Re: i'm giving up Jan 06:21 8/13/02 (0)

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