Sleep anxiety

Hi:

I have been having a lot of trouble sleeping due to anxiety. I dread going to bed. Any ideas on how to not dread bedtime and to fall asleep naturally without medication?

Help please!

[CactusDan]

We have the same problem about sleeping.

[Hidden]

If you use any kind of smartphone or tablet stop using one an hour before you sleep. The light from the screen tricks the brain into thinking it is still sunny out. Try not to watch any tv shows that can make you anxious. Also try cutting out caffeine and sugar.

[Agora1]

I agree with "Justliving" in not having any electronic devices in bed with you. Slowing your mind down an hour before bedtime can better prepare you for sleep. Having a cool bedroom makes for a more comfortable rest. Dim lights or complete dark will relax your mind. I use meditation and deep breathing in not allowing the day's events to surface in my mind. Slowly let your body fully relax into the mattress. Using some imagery in your meditation can help in taking you on a calming journey as you are floating away on a cloud. When exhaling your breath think "I'm Safe" "I'm Calm" "I'm Relaxed" Feel your shoulders relax and sink into the mattress. "I feel peace" "I am sleepy" "It's time for me to rest" Hopefully by starting a structured bedtime ritual, your mind and body will re-adjust your inner clock and you will look forward to sleep. Goodnight..zzzzz

[Jen456]

And u can try a melatonin (it’s natural) too. Take an hour or so before you sleep. A fan is good for me. It’s a little sound and a nice breeze. I agree with the meditation: I am safe, I am calm and I will sleep. For me, I read a bit of an uplifting or meditation type book. I go two pages and start to drift to sleep.

Best,

Jeneen

[Luna505]

I have the same problem and use melatonin to fix it. It's a natural hormone your body produces when it's time to sleep. Taking it as a tablet can help you get a good sleep ❤️

[jrcnpg]

As one or two people have commented, melatonin is a good and natural substance which aids sleep. Should your melatonin levels be lowered, milk is rich in melatonin together with L-Tryptophan another natural substance. Your GP can prescribe supplements of melatonin and maybe a medication which will re-set your circadian rhythms which may be of use.

[Cat26538 in reply to jrcnpg]

I have the same problem. Im afraid to take any kind of sleeping pills. I ended up in the hospital because I od on them

[Momneedshelp]

Hi😀 Agree w/ others’ suggestions. Relaxing quiet music or ocean sounds are good too. Sweet dreams😴

[Pearl67]

If you have a tub, try a really warm Epsom salt bath, maybe add lavender oil. Lavender oil on your feet as you get into bed. “Calm” tea magnesium. Can you get 25-30 mins of fresh air everyday? Sleepy Tea Extra by Celestial Seasonings is good. You may need two cups while reading of chillin out about 30-60 mins before bed. Maybe while in the tub.

I HATE sleep anxiety! I get it! But! If I am faithful to the mAny suggestions given from everyone here and the thingsI shared, my chances are way better for success! It is a HABIT that needs to be developed!

You got this! Report back and let us know!

[Hidden in reply to Pearl67]

Thanks for the great suggestions! Appreciate it.

[Candif]

I watch something funny a favorite comedy that makes me relaxed and happy..takes my mind off of other things and keeps it busy enough to relax and make me sleepy...