Why Does My Depression Get Worse At Night?

[EnigmaticMindOfLirio]

Hello, everyone. My name is Lorraine, and I suffer with Depression, along with a few other things. I was wondering why my depression seems to spike around night time, like the moment I want to go to bed, BAM! The racing thoughts start in, my anxiety spikes and I end up in tears. I'm currently taking 6mg of Vraylar and 1mg of Klonopin to help combat the depression, anxiety and panic attacks. The medication has worked wonders for me, so far, though I would like to know why it's happening at night, along with tips on how to manage my symptoms when it occurs, if possible. Thank you in advance.

~Lorraine.

[Suzie40]

Hi Lorraine, this sometimes happens to me too. I guess bedtime is the time our minds are most empty, and susceptible to unwanted thoughts creeping in. I find waiting to go to bed until I’m actually tired helps, as opposed to winding down while I’m there. I might cuddle up on the settee with a blanket and watch some TV and when I can feel myself starting to fall asleep, I go to bed. I hope this helps x

[Hidden in reply to Suzie40]

i agree and sometimes at night our brains want to process everything and i have that sometimes because i am panicking about myself.

[EnigmaticMindOfLirio in reply to Suzie40]

Thank you, Suzie. I have a lot of trouble with sleep patterns and am trying to get on a schedule, but my thoughts just barge in when I'm trying to wind down, I'll try to occupy myself in the mean time until I feel myself nodding off.

[MAS_Nurse]

Hello Engimatic..., Welcome to this supportive community. As you have begun to see, folks here are very willing to come alongside one another with timely advice and support. Do check out Pinned Posts section and the links to our free mental health guides etc.

I see you are resident in the States, but do check out the advice from the UK charity MIND regarding managing sleep and sleep disturbances due to MH problems:

mind.org.uk/information-sup...

What you are experiencing is very common with anxiety states and depression, at night we are more vulnerable to our thoughts and emotions playing havoc! Maybe it's worth having a chat with your doctor or your mental health professional about what you are experiencing, so they are aware and may offer support and advice.

Keep in touch.

Best wishes,

MAS Nurse

[EnigmaticMindOfLirio]

Thank you, MAS Nurse!

[Hidden]

Hiya, so sorry to hear about your difficulties. I agree the the other posters, most things seem to get worse at night. One rather obvious distraction is to do something enjoyable like reading or listening to some relaxing music, as well as making your sleeping environment as comfortable as possible. Try to do something just for you, something positive last thing, so you go to bed on a high note. And, as we all need to do, show yourself some compassion and kindness. Take care,

[EnigmaticMindOfLirio in reply to Hidden]

Thank you, Sebastian58. My mind tends to be in the negative all of the time but I will try to be nicer to myself and end the day on a positive note. I appreciate your input and again, thank you. I hope you have a good day.

[En1234]

Its funny how the brain works. I am not on any medication but I tend to feel panicky and anxious first thing in the morning. As soon as I waken up I can feel the palpitations come on and the only way I can get rid of this is to just get up and get on with my day.

The night time is the time I most love. I hate my morning routine. Getting up, coffee, washed dressed etc. I love getting to bed at night!!

I agree with Suzie though. I think if you try and switch off from yourself (and I understand it is easier said that done) put on a good film or something you enjoy watching and focus on that. Just try to concentrate on what is happening and relax!!

Wishing you well!!!

XXXX