Struggling with Sleep: When to Seek Help for Insomnia

Sleep issues

I've been having trouble sleeping lately.
Normally, I stay up until 1 or 2 AM (sometimes even 3 AM), but I've never had any issues until last week.
Now, even though I'm really tired, I still can't fall asleep.
I tried clearing my mind, but one day I couldn't take it anymore and took a sleep aid at 6:30 AM just to finally sleep.
Another day, since I had to wake up early the next morning, I took a sleep aid around 2 or 3 AM, but it still took me over an hour to fall asleep.
That day, I only got about 3 hours of sleep, and when I rode my bike to school, I could barely keep my eyes open (though I was also dealing with swollen eyes from crying the night before).
I felt extremely tired, but I couldn't fall asleep during two classes.
I tried lying down at noon but couldn't sleep, and it wasn't until after one class in the afternoon that I finally managed to sleep for ten minutes.
Now, it's almost 3 AM again, and I'm trying to sleep but can't.
It's now nearly 4 AM, and I took some medication, but it's 5 AM and I still haven't slept.
Should I see a doctor?

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/10/28

Dr. Huang Xiaoxian reply Psychiatry

Dear Eva, thank you for your question.
It sounds like, in addition to insomnia, there are other distressing issues that have been affecting you, leading to tears.
Therefore, sleep disturbances may just be a manifestation of these concerns, with the root cause stemming from your worries.
I recommend seeking an evaluation from a mental health professional who can provide appropriate treatment for your mood and insomnia, helping you to improve soon.
Wishing you all the best!

Reply Date: 2019/10/28

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing significant difficulties with sleep, which can be incredibly frustrating and exhausting. Based on your description, it seems that your insomnia has escalated recently, despite previously being able to manage your sleep schedule. The fact that you are now struggling to fall asleep even when you feel tired, and that you have resorted to taking sleep medication, indicates that this issue may require further attention.

Insomnia can manifest in various ways, including difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early. It can be caused by a multitude of factors, including stress, anxiety, lifestyle habits, and underlying medical conditions. Given that you mentioned feeling overwhelmed and having emotional distress, it is possible that these factors are contributing to your sleep difficulties.

When to seek help for insomnia is a common question. If your sleep issues persist for more than a few weeks, or if they are significantly impacting your daily life—such as your ability to concentrate in class, your mood, or your overall well-being—it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. A doctor, particularly a sleep specialist or psychiatrist, can help identify the underlying causes of your insomnia and recommend appropriate treatment options.

In your case, since you have already tried using sleep aids without achieving satisfactory results, it might be beneficial to explore other avenues of treatment. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is a highly effective non-pharmacological approach that focuses on changing sleep habits and misconceptions about sleep. This therapy can help you develop better sleep hygiene practices, manage stress, and address any anxiety that may be affecting your ability to sleep.

Additionally, it is important to consider your lifestyle habits. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and establishing a consistent sleep schedule can all contribute to better sleep quality. Avoiding stimulants such as caffeine and nicotine, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime, can also be beneficial. Creating a calming bedtime routine, such as reading or practicing relaxation techniques, can help signal to your body that it is time to wind down.

If you are experiencing emotional distress, it may also be helpful to speak with a mental health professional. They can provide support and strategies to cope with any underlying issues that may be contributing to your insomnia.

In summary, given the duration and impact of your sleep difficulties, seeking help from a healthcare professional is a wise decision. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and tailor a treatment plan that addresses both your sleep issues and any emotional challenges you may be facing. Remember, you are not alone in this struggle, and there are effective treatments available to help you regain restful sleep and improve your overall quality of life.

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