I’ve been having insomnia due to health anxiety. As I lay in bed I get hyper aware of feelings in my body and then the “what if” thoughts creep in. I start thinking about conditions, diseases, even the possibility that something will happen to me or my husband in my/his sleep and we’ll lose each other. I always make sure I kiss him and tell him I love him so much before bed, and it helps comfort me a little to express how I feel about him.
Does anyone else struggle to sleep when health anxiety strikes? Does anyone have suggestions on how to get a handle on health anxiety?
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Murphdog
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I have anxiety and it is hard for me to go to sleep. My doctor prescribed trazodone which is non-addictive to help me sleep and it works really good. Also I seek counseling and have learned self-talk is a huge issue in my anxiety. For me personally I pray when I start getting anxious. I am continuing to counseling at this time and I am on medications which kind of help depending on the stress level I have.
Something that has worked for me with insomnia is Yoga Nidra. These guided meditations require no actual physical activity, and they focus on complete relaxation. Sources say that one hour of yoga nidra is equal to 4 hours of sleep. You can find yoga nidra on youtube, or podcasts
I am so sorry that you are going through this. I suffer from health anxiety also. I have had every disease known to man the past 3 years. I have been to every doctor and had every test done and every thing always turns out fine. It is hard to believe that we are actually healthy but we can't let go of the idea that we are sick. This can really happen to anyone, I never would have thought it would happen to me. I never worried about being sick or having a disease. Then 3 years ago I started having panic attacks out of the blue and thought I was dying. It is so hard to get a hold of.
I have health anxiety and OCD (which mames it worst) constantly thinking bout dying from cancer or any other terrible disease. What have helped in the past, (a little) first of all if its that bad look for help, go to counseling, or a psicologyst they can really help. Another thing is to write things down, when you get anxious grab a piece of paper and start writing all of your fears and answer yourself back. Go get a physical and blood work, knowing that you are fine will help a little. Drink herbal teas(chamomile,velerian,etc) to help you relax, also buy some melatonin pills or drops, you can take them before bed and will help. Also pray pray and pray, be in peace with God and he will help you.
Hope you feel better soon. I know it's hard to listen to your body and have irrational thoughts. You can message me anytime
I have the same thing. I feel every heart beat and every little twinge. I have had every test possible and everyone comes out normal. But I still think something is wrong with me. It is so frustrating. I actually made my poor husband take me to the ER 10 times the first year. I was convinced each time I had a panic attack that I was dying. I haven't been to the ER in 2 years, thank God. I take Remeron before bed and it makes me sleep all night. I understand what you are going through and I am so sorry. I will pray for you my friend.
Unfortunately I know exactly how you feel. I constantly have this shadow of doubt and worry that the worst will happen to myself or loved ones. I’ve had countless visits to the doctor and ER over the past 5 years dealing with health anxiety. I can never really pinpoint the moment or trigger it started. I’ve found eating a healthier diet and doing anything to promote good health helps to slightly convince myself that I’m healthy but every single symptom or feeling that arises I always assume the worst, the end. I have found talking to others especially those that understand or have experienced these issues helps a lot but over time that shadow creeps up again, especially at night. Family has been recommending I try CBD oil as well as therapy which may be my next step. If you ever need someone to talk to please message me. We are all in this together and you are not alone.
Try a weighted blanket that always gets my brain to calm down so I can sleep and not have anxiety dreams
Yes. The only thought I can think about that is calming is that I trust my God, Jesus Christ, that he is in control of my life and whatever happens. I also listen to Anxious for Nothing by Max Lucado before bed. I take epsom salt baths before bed and some ambien as well. I have a pretty good routine now.
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