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The following is a visitor-submitted question or story. For more, you can submit your own sleep story here, or browse the collection of experiences and questions other visitors have shared here.
Insomnia - The Hidden Truth!
by Dave
(California)
I've been suffering from Insomnia for about 18 months now. I've read all the top books on the subject and read all the blogs and medical sites. Basically, they all say the same thing about light boxes, sleep hygiene, reducing caffeine intake, etc however what they never really discuss are what I feel are the real culprits of Insomnia and the real reason we as Insomnia suffers never rid ourselves of this evil beast. Let me give you an example of what I mean:
Two people are suffering insomnia - let's call them Steve and Allison.
Steve and Allison both suffer from Insomnia and go to the doctor and are prescribed the same sleep medication. What Steve fails to mention to his doctor is that he's just lost his job, and as a result he can't sleep. Likely, due to the stress of financial and employment issues.
Allison has a poor diet, never works out and drinks caffeinated drinks at night within minutes or with an hour or two of bedtime.
Both Allison and Steve failed to mention these facts to their doctor, and now both subjects have been on sleep medication for a time that exceeds what the medication is suitable for. And both Allison and Steve feel they are now addicted or can't sleep without the medication.
Had both these individuals discussed these issues with their doctor the underlying issues could have been dealt with, and as a result they could most likely have reduced the time spent suffering from Insomnia by tackling the underlying issues rather than placing a band-aid of only sleep medication on the problem. The moral or point of this story is that you should discuss the reason you FEEL you have insomnia rather than just say I cant sleep because most likely your doctor will just prescribe the medication, and that's it.
Kevin: Wise words Dave, thanks for that. Complexities abound and being as communicative as possible about them, with yourself and your doctor, can do nothing but help you get to the root. Were these insights based on people around you, and does your own situation differ or is it similar?
Kevin
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Sleep Paralysis: A Dreamer's Guide
Ever woken up paralyzed? A surprising number of us have, believe it or not. But few know the actual causes of this phenomenon, and fewer still how to exert control over it. Dream researcher and sleep paralysis expert Ryan Hurd shares breakthrough insights into how to do just that.
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