Insomnia...

[keribear]

This is the first time I've suffered insomnia since 2003, and now it's actually a problem, since I'm not living the life of a college student!!  How do I deal??  I know everything there is to know about sleeping pills.  I can't take OTC pills becuase I am always still groggy in the morning and can't get up.  And I'm afraid to get a prescription for

Comments

[bradped]

I've had insomnia, and I haven't beaten it or anything... but what I do to stop my racing mind is pretty simple... I listen to really soft music (like Damien Rice) and sort of sing along and really listen to the words and it usually lets me drift off... I hope things get better!

Ps. I LOVE your icon.

[keribear]

Not gonna lie - I know LJ isn't really the best place to get sleep advice. 70% of the impetus for the post was finding this new icon! ;)

[mellowbob2]

I take Rozerem occasionally, but I also take stimulants during the day that help off-set the grogginess. I don't feel like it knocks me out regardless of the situation -- I have to lay down like I am honestly going to bed and turn off all lights, tvs, etc., otherwise I'm still awake.

[denouement]

I was on Ambien for a few months and was extremely responsible about it and loved it. I only took half a pill every three or four nights.... just knowing I had it as an option was comforting enough to let me sleep.

[bantunianpeanut]

I took Ambien for two months about five years ago, and it helped me get my sleep back on track enough that I could get back into a schedule. Every so often my sleep schedule gets messed up again, and I'll take Ambien for about two weeks and it helps get me back on track again. Even after 5 years, I have never had to increase the dose, and I still take the lowest dose they make. I think the key is being responsible with it, like the person above said, and not taking it when you don't really, really need it. And yes, knowing you can take an Ambien if you can't get to sleep really helps with the anxiety aspect (if you can't get to sleep because you're worried you won't be able to, if that makes any sense, lol.) But it's not for everyone.

[proverbdoll]

I've taken the "herbal supplement" melatonin sometimes. It works but doesn't make me groggy the next day and isn't supposed to be habit-forming.

[keribear]

I know this is WAY late for a response but I have to say thank you for the melatonin advice. I usually don't like herbal supplements but I tried it after your suggestion because I was desperate for sleep - and it really helps!! THANK YOU!

[proverbdoll]

You're welcome.

I'm glad I could help! :)