New Place, On Edge, Can't Sleep

[PinCushionPrincess]

I'm on holiday right now, it's the first night after arriving and I just want to go home. I can't sleep, I'm just so on edge and I don't know what to do about it. I'm with my BF and I'm so conscious that he's so excited about this and been looking forward to it for so long I don't want to ruin it. I just want to get through the week and get home, but I feel bad about that too because it's my holiday as well and I want to enjoy it. But I don't know how I can if I spend it all feeling this, and I definitely won't if I can't sleep. I don't have any anxiety meds because it seems so hard to convince anyone I need any, and I couldn't get to see the Dr before I left anyway. I don't want to be a miserable cow, not on holiday, but I'm just so wound up and tense and on edge, if I could only sleep that might help but I've been trying for hours now, gone through every trick and technique with no joy and I just don't know what to do....

 

[Truthful_Whispers]

If you access to any white noise, such as a fan, blowing wind, or flowing water, it may help. It helps me. I understand the anxiety of being in strange surroundings, away from our familiar and protective 'bubble'. While you are there, try to take in some good food and focus on some beautiful nature scenery. If you are triggered by crowds and noise, like I am, tell your partner that you would prefer to go to some of the more quiet and intimate locations to relax.

 

[darwin]

I wish I had answers to this, but i know exactly what you mean. Nights like this are tough. I also couldn't get anxiety meds, doctor only wanted me on zoloft. So frustrating. Thats why I went to cannabis. But it's medicinally legal where I am.

Can you make a run to get some bedtime tea? Have your BF hold you?

 

[PinCushionPrincess]

Tea is a great idea, I must pick some up as there's only coffee in the room, not ideal for trying to sleep!! BF is great, he has held me and held my hand but I'm trying not to disturb him too much because I've had a bad run of nights recently and I feel like he needs a break from my blubbering, esp on holiday! I just hope I can figure out a way to relax and even enjoy myself, and not spend the whole week tense and sleepless and focussing on going home!!

 

[Ocean5]

I'm not a Doctor, but Benadryl is now used for anxiety.

Also, I've found this tea called "Nightly Night" by Traditional Medicinals helpful.
(I use to drink it during day before seeing a doctor. Took the edge off.)
Package looks like http://pics1.ds-static.com/prodimg/42362/300.jpg (hope I am not breaking a forum rule by posting image.)

 

[darwin]

I currently have a blend of california poppy, blue violet, alfalfa, rose, ashwaganda, mugwort, cinnamon, lavender, and mace. I got it from a local organic herb shop and its working wonders.

If you can find an herb shop that will maka it for you I recommend it.

 

[PinCushionPrincess]

Thanks guys. I'm on Full Day 2 of the holiday and I just cannot wait to get home. The hours feel interminable and I hate myself for not relaxing and making the most of my break. I keep telling myself I'll regret thinking like this when I'm back at work next week, although I'm also regretting having spent so much money just to be a bundle of nerves and constantly on the verge of tears!! I'm in a little fishing village in Italy so I'm not sure how accessible some of the stuff recommended will be but I will try to make it to the Farmacia to have a look!

 

[Ocean5]

I was once given an antihistamine for anxiety called Vistaril (Hydroxyzine). It was just a side effects that it made you tired. They may have that. But I couldn't take due to some other side effects, or drug interaction.

Maybe try to find some calming teas in mint family, or chamomile.

In college I use to make mint tea with 2-3 tea bags to reduce anxiety. First I'd put my hand over cup and just inhale the smell for awhile (aromatherapy without realizing it), then drink. (I guess early signs of my anxiety problem...looking back)

Speaking of which Lavender is good to relax. If you can find oil - just put a little under nose. But you could just get the flowers, and make a tea and smell. If you find lavender let me know. Will send more advice on how to use.

Music for Mindful Brain by Dr Jeffrey Thompson is helpful. Try track "Renewal One." Sure you could find some of his work on Youtube, or maybe even that track.

Wish you the best!

 

[PinCushionPrincess]

Thanks for all the replies guys. I couldn't get anything of use in the pharmacy in the end, and the only tea I could find was some extortionately priced green tea!! I'm home now and so relieved, but I'm not sure what I should do in future, because I have other trips and events coming up and I can't go through what I've just been through I did finally manage to relax, but only after a few drinks, and as alcohol interferes with my sleep, which is a major issue for me, and isn't recommended on my medication, that isn't really ideal!

 

[Ocean5]

Before next trip get the herbs, teas, or medicine you need. You can try them out before to see which works best to relax you. Best of luck.

I don't think I recommended before because I figured you wouldn't be able to get, but check out amino acid L-Arginine.

 

[darwin]

You might try some seriphos before the upcoming trips to see if it works for sleep. It's my most important supplement for sleep. No side affects for me whatsoever. I guess it turns off the stress hormones that keep me awake. I have to take it around 9 pm tho. If I take it too late it's not as effective.