Re: sleep phobia?

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Re: sleep phobia?

Posted by searching on February 22, 2005 at 17:49:48:
In Reply to: sleep phobia? posted by iamsparticus555 on February 22, 2005 at 13:43:01:
Have you tried white noise? I have a noisy fan running at night and there are also noise machines that have different sounds like running water that are made specifically for that purpose. You do become addicted to the need for white noise once you get used to it and it will be difficult to fall asleep without it but it is a whole lot better than sleeping pills or alcohol.
You could also try melatonin. Most health food/suppliment stores sell it as a sleep aid, in fact some prescription drugs have incorporated it into their formulas. You can get information about it on-line or at most stores that carry it. You should make sure to dim the lights so that your eyes are not taking in light and thinking that you should be awake. Your brain releases hormones that regulate sleep when exposed to the day/night cycle. In artifical light these hormones can get out of wack.
You may also have a fear because of past experiences or a hostile environment or just being used to having family around you when you sleep. It is a normal transition that those that decide to live alone go through, however, you could also seek some form of therapy to help you overcome it. One of my doctors told me when I was having trouble falling asleep to put my hand on my chest and listen to my breathing, feel it is more of what you do, but if you concentrate on the that motion, it takes the focus off other things and you fall asleep in that singular focus.
I also read sometimes when I am sleepy but can't fall asleep, it strains my eyes and my brain enough that I can't resist falling asleep. Just read something that is intellectual, not scary or emotional.
I know we are not supposed to refer to religion as the answer on this website, but a great comfort I have is in praying before I sleep. I talk to God about all my troubles and things that I am joyful about. I put it in His hands at the end of the day and that gives me peace of mind.

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Sleep Deprivation due to Sleep Apnea and insufficient sleep are common and can present as insomnia, narcolepsy, or idiopathic hypersomnia. In infants and children sleep problems commonly present themselves as ADD or ADHD.