Hey #CoSo - it’s 3am UK time and I cannot sleep. Wondered if I could vent to someone?
@VaKnow22 Go ahead. Fellow insomniac Brit at your service.
@stueytheround
Insomnia is horrendous. I’m new to it. Used to sleep 8 hours no problem
@VaKnow22
Insomnia is a very specific thing.
Once I fall asleep, I'll sleep for a good six to eight hours. It's the falling asleep in the first place I struggle with.
I can lie in the dark, tired, but also wide awake. Is that what you're experiencing?
@stueytheround
Both. Struggling to drift off and waking up every hour or so
@VaKnow22
Ok.
That sounds more like 'broken' sleep than insomnia, per se. It can often be something a doc can help with. Do you mind me asking:
1. Do you snore?
2. Are you (like me) overweight?
@stueytheround nope and nope. Just an over active mind. I’m going through depression so a lot is tipsy turvy right now I guess
@VaKnow22
Right.
That'll be what's causing it. It's a bastard, that black dog. Want me to give it a kick in the balls?
I have severe anxiety with moderate depression so I do understand.
There are some things which might help.
1. Look up 'Sleep Hygeine'. It's about discipline and training oneself to sleep at certain times and creating the right environment for sleep.
2. Breathing techniques and mindfulness or meditation to help settle your mind a little.
Cont.
@VaKnow22
This one is really good.
Progressive Muscle Relaxation
It might not send you to sleep but I promise you'll feel very relaxed! It's not some weird quack practice, in fact, the video below is by the NHS!
Headphones on and follow the very simple instructions.
@stueytheround
Ah thanks Stuey, I’m going to try it right now.
And yes feel free to give the black dog a kick boot to the nuts! 😂
Really appreciate your help on this. I’m meant to be up for work in like 4 hours 😬