[Guest]

For twelve or so years i have had problems falling sleep. Its very cyclical, and is related to anxiety about falling asleep itself. When feeling very tired the anxiety increases knowing that i must get a good night's sleep. Obviously this anxiety prevents the onset of sleep.

Often i actually feel myself falling asleep, and i wake myself up. This oviously increases my anxiety This is very frustrating, because i will feel tired the next day, although i perform just as well.

I can have these bouts for weeks at a time and it is upsetting. I sometimes take Zopiclone (3.75mg, or if really bad 7.5mg) to break it.

I know this type of anxiety is not life threatening, but there is nothing worse than lying awake, feeling sleepy, but not being able to fall asleep, knowing you will feel awful in the morning. It can become quite an obsesion. i know sleep is important, but how does one put it into perspective? I wis i could stop worrying about it!

[Guest]

some patients actually need therapy, biofeedback or hypnosis to help them not focus on their sleep. Simple techniques such as getting into bed only when you are ready for sleep and getting out of bed if you don't fall asleep in 30 minutes or so, avoiding caffeine, alcohol or nicotine all day and night, and exercising in the late afternoon can be quite helpful. A discussion with your own physician may be of help as well.
[quote] For twelve or so years i have had problems falling sleep. Its very cyclical, and is related to anxiety about falling asleep itself... [/quote]