The Real Reason You Can’t Sleep – Anxiety

Falling asleep is hard for many people, in fact, as many as 40 million Americans report that they have problems with sleeping. You lay down to sleep and your mind won’t stop. Thoughts are racing through your brain and you can’t seem to stop worrying. You replay each conversation you’ve had and the things you have to do tomorrow. You’re exhausted but you can’t seem to stop thinking. You desperately want to sleep but that seems impossible. Do you start to think about what’s going on? Why can’t I sleep?  The answer is anxiety.

Anxiety can cause us to feel anywhere from worried to out of control depending on the severity of our emotions. You’re struggling with what you can control and what you can’t. When your thoughts are overpowering, it can seem like there’s no hope for relief in sight. That thought is an anxious one, trying to convince you that you’re powerless. Your mind wants you to believe that you can’t win, but you can.

So, what do you do? You can start with some basic tips to help you sleep. Make sure you have a comfortable bed. You’d be surprised what a better mattress can do for your body’s nightly rest. Do something relaxing before you sleep like reading or taking a bath. Have a routine that reminds your body it’s time to go to bed rather than something that’s stimulating. These are a few things that contribute to a better night’s rest.

There are natural remedies that can help calm your nervous system enough to fall asleep. Some people like to use melatonin to get a good night’s rest. Other people find that magnesium allows their muscles to relax and as a result, they feel like they can get a better night’s rest. It’s worth trying some natural ways to fall asleep, but make sure to consult your medical provider before trying something new.

If you still can’t sleep after you’ve tried these suggestions, it might be related to your mental health. Anxiety is one of the most common issues that people with insomnia report. Whether it’s hard to fall asleep or stay asleep, anxiety could be contributing to sleeping problems. If you can’t seem to get your anxious brain under control, don’t blame yourself. Anxiety is difficult to manage and it may be time to seek outside help.

Reach out to a licensed therapist to support you. A counselor can help you find ways to better manage your anxiety. Whether you’re working with a counselor online or in person, it can benefit you to speak to a mental health professional. This person cares about your wellbeing and wants to help you. You can read more about online counselors or therapists and the benefits of using them here. Don’t suffer needlessly with insomnia when there is a solution: talking to someone who specializes in ways to understand and manage your anxious brain.

You will find a way to get a better night’s rest, and it’s okay to ask for guidance to do so. Wishing you a restful sleep in the future!