Struggling with Insomnia: My Journey from Sleepless Nights to Seeking Help

Since April 16, I have suddenly been unable to sleep?

Since April 16, I stayed at a hotel in Ximen, Taipei, with my girlfriend.
I remember that I couldn't sleep that night and forced myself to try to sleep, but by noon the next day, I still hadn't slept.
After that, I continued to struggle with insomnia.
I consulted the psychiatry department at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and the psychosomatic medicine department at Veterans General Hospital, both of which prescribed me sleeping pills.
However, even though I feel very tired and want to sleep, I just can't.
I can hear sounds around me, and when I close my eyes, it feels like my eyelids are twitching.
It’s as if I’ve forgotten how to sleep; my mind isn’t occupied with anything else, just an overwhelming sense of fatigue and a strong desire to sleep.
Sometimes, I feel so exhausted that I toss and turn in bed, desperately wanting to sleep, but I just can’t.

No matter where I am or what time it is, I’ve taken the medication prescribed by the doctor, Lyrica, which helps me fall asleep, but it feels like I’m just passing out.
When I wake up in the morning, I feel even more drained, and it takes a long time to wake up.
It feels like I wake up in the middle of my sleep and then can’t fall back asleep.
The doctor suggested trying half a pill, but even that doesn’t help me sleep.
I feel utterly helpless because it’s been almost 50 days now.
I read online that if you feel sleepy, you should lie down, but even when I feel sleepy in bed, I remain conscious.
So here I am, lying in bed, feeling exhausted but not actually asleep, still hearing the sounds around me.
I am so tired, so very tired.
For the first time, I feel that sleep is exhausting.
I’ve cried and tried various remedies, but I keep thinking about how I used to fall asleep.
I only remember that when I closed my eyes, my eyelids wouldn’t twitch, and I would feel a bit dizzy before falling asleep.
I am mentally and physically drained...
What should I do?

Xiao Cheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/29

Dr. Zhang Fangrong reply Psychiatry

Dear Sir/Madam,
Thank you for your inquiry.
Based on your description, it is evident that you are currently experiencing significant difficulties with sleep.
You mentioned that you have sought treatment at multiple hospitals, but your condition has not improved significantly.
I would like to offer a suggestion for your consideration: you may want to visit a sleep medicine center at a comprehensive hospital, where a thorough sleep evaluation and testing can be arranged.
Additionally, you might consider a short-term hospitalization in a psychiatric ward to help adjust your sleep patterns and medication.
Wishing you good mental and physical health.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Fang-Rong Chang
Department of Psychiatry

Reply Date: 2017/05/29

More Info

It sounds like you are going through a very challenging time with your insomnia, and I want to acknowledge how difficult this situation can be. Insomnia can be a complex issue, often influenced by various factors, including stress, anxiety, and even physical health conditions. Based on your description, it seems that your insomnia has persisted for nearly 50 days, which is concerning and warrants further attention.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that insomnia is not just about the inability to fall asleep; it can also involve waking up frequently during the night, feeling unrested upon waking, and experiencing a general sense of fatigue throughout the day. The symptoms you describe, such as feeling very tired but unable to sleep, hearing sounds around you while trying to rest, and the sensation of your eyelids twitching, are all common experiences for those struggling with insomnia.

You mentioned that you have tried medications prescribed by doctors, such as Lyrica, which helped you fall asleep but left you feeling groggy and unrefreshed in the morning. This is a common side effect of many sleep medications, and it can lead to a cycle where you feel compelled to take more medication to achieve restful sleep, which can further complicate the situation. It’s crucial to communicate these side effects to your healthcare provider, as they may need to adjust your treatment plan.

Given that you have been experiencing insomnia for an extended period, it might be beneficial to explore non-pharmacological approaches to improve your sleep. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is a highly effective treatment that focuses on changing the thoughts and behaviors that contribute to sleep difficulties. This therapy can help you develop better sleep habits, manage anxiety related to sleep, and ultimately improve your overall sleep quality.

Here are some strategies you might consider implementing:
1. Sleep Hygiene: Establish a regular sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Create a relaxing bedtime routine that signals to your body that it’s time to wind down. This could include activities like reading, taking a warm bath, or practicing relaxation techniques.

2. Limit Stimulants: Avoid caffeine and nicotine in the hours leading up to bedtime, as these can interfere with your ability to fall asleep. Additionally, be mindful of alcohol consumption, as it can disrupt sleep patterns.

3. Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment: Ensure that your bedroom is conducive to sleep. This includes a comfortable mattress and pillows, a cool room temperature, and minimizing noise and light. Consider using earplugs or a white noise machine if sounds are disturbing your sleep.

4. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or progressive muscle relaxation can help calm your mind and body before bed. These techniques can reduce anxiety and promote a sense of relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep.

5. Limit Naps: While it might be tempting to nap during the day to make up for lost sleep, this can interfere with your ability to fall asleep at night. If you do nap, try to keep it short (20-30 minutes) and avoid napping late in the day.

6. Seek Professional Help: If your insomnia persists despite trying these strategies, it may be time to consult a sleep specialist or a mental health professional who can provide tailored support and treatment options. They can help identify any underlying issues contributing to your insomnia and work with you to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.

Remember, you are not alone in this struggle, and reaching out for help is a significant first step toward recovery. It’s essential to be patient with yourself as you navigate this journey, as improving sleep can take time and may require a combination of approaches. I wish you the best in finding the relief you seek and hope you can soon enjoy restful nights and rejuvenated days.

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