Help!
I've been struggling with sleep maintenance insomnia for around 18 months, and I'm struggling to find any professionals willing to take an interest that can offer some sound advice, so I'm hoping someone on here might be able to offer some guidance that hasn't been previosuly suggested.
I have a history of general anxiety, worry and catastrophizing, and my sleeps issues started a few months after quite a stressful period. However, after 6 months of medication (Sertraline), following sleep hygiene best-practises, taking supplements (magnesium, L-Theanine and Apigenin), hypnotherapy and generally feeling quite good mentally without too much stress and worry, my sleep problems haven't improved at all. I can get to sleep OK, but I wake up every night between 1am - 3am, and struggle to get back to sleep.
My GP has suggested I go back on Sertraline. But, as I currently feel good about myself, I don't want to go back on antidepressants unless that is the only solution. So, I guess I'm looking to see if anybody has experienced something similar and has a view on whether they feel medication is the answer or whether there are other remedies. Also, for any suggested ideas, a corresponding time line would be good to know.
Thanks in advance. 🙏
Hi Lori, thanks for responding. I don't think it's environmental. This has been an issue in all seasons with various temperatures. The room and the bed feels comfortable. I think it's stress-related. I'm just not sure how to resolve it.
Hi
. I'm glad you were able to get off sertraline and I understand your reluctance to take it again, especially if waking during the night is the only issue it would address. It does have side effects and tapering can be difficult for some people. Do you think something in your environment might be triggering the awakenings? If so, might a fan or white noise help? Another option that has an excellent success rate is cognitive behavioral therary - insomnia (CBT-I). It can be a lot of work, but probably not much more than hypnotherapy. Here is an article that explains it: https://insomnia.sleep-disorders.net/cbt. CBT-I has become the frontline treatment for insomnia. Have you tried using your hypnotherapy training when you wake up during the night? I hope this helps and that others chime in with their own experiences. Best of wishes. - Lori (Team Member)
