Night Qualms

[Britt.f7]

I've noticed, especially lately, that my dark thoughts hit at night. I can feel pretty good during the day, or not think of harming myself, but, the minute I crawl into bed the bad thoughts come. It's not that I am busy during the day to keep those thoughts away. I'm just not sure why this keeps happening.

I have also have had issues where I am too afraid or panicky with the idea of going to sleep. I am not sure why that is either. I don't think it has anything to do with living or dying.

Does anyone else get worse in the evening? If so, what do you do to conquer it?

Thanks ahead of time.

 

[KP the nut]

Britt, I can't say I have had this.

Have you tried relaxation before bed and using essential oils on your pillow? Also breathing exercises, I find counting my breathing - in for 4, hold for 2 and out for 4 helps focus my mind.

(((HUGS)))

 

[Smushroom]

All the time. I feel 'down' during the day sometimes, sometimes I'm ok. But night's are the worst. I think part of it for me is being asleep means I am not able to 'scan' for any danger. I am scared someone is going to come in and get me.

But not only that, I seem to have the flashbacks/intrusive thoughts etc at night time when I have finally settled down for the night, despite the traumas happening mainly during the day.

 

[JustBe]

Yup! Nights are not good. I close all the shades at dusk and go into "lockdown". I keep an audio book playing all night and have both dogs and usually the cat on the bed. They are a great early warning system.

Some nights I don't sleep. Then I nap during the day. Some nights a warm shower and lavender cream helps.

One of my traumas was at night in my apartment years ago so nights are bad for me.

Hmmmm, that wasn't very helpful was it? Sorry!

 

[Britt.f7]

using essential oils on your pillow

A lavender spray? Would that help? Thank you for the hugs and suggestions. Much needed since it is now night.

I think part of it for me is being asleep means I am not able to 'scan' for any danger. I am scared someone is going to come in and get me.

That's an interesting thought. I know, after I was attacked at 16, I started sleeping in the hallway between my mother's and sister's room. This all makes sense.

Hmmmm, that wasn't very helpful was it?

Yes it was Movin'On. It was helpful. I don't feel alone or odd.

Thanks to all of you!

 

[amethist]

Dont use the lavender every night or it wont work after while, as you will get used to it. Try alternating it with Geranium or one of the other sedative type essential oils.

 

[Britt.f7]

We have a local pharmacy that sells them. I'll have to go check it out. Thank you for the suggestions. Now I have an idea of what to look for.

 

[Hashi]

I think an audiobook like Movin'On says, or relaxing music, is helpful.

I listen to a guided meditation while falling asleep. It's for relaxation then affirmations for peace of mind, calm and feeling safe - so it helps me with those directly, as well as indirectly by giving me something else to focus on.

 

[DharmaGirl]

I can deal with my symptoms during the day, but like you, they become overwhelming at night. I also sleep with 2 dogs and a cat. I take medicine for the nightmares, otherwise there is no sleep.

 

[quaintpapercut]

Nights are sometimes hard for me as well. When I lived alone I used to sleep with a hot water bottle clutched to my chest for comfort. I also used to like to sleep with the light on. I hated being startled awake and having to confront dark corners.

 

[Britt.f7]

clutched to my chest for comfort.

I've noticed that I've been clutching one of my pillows to my chest in the last few months. If I turn over it goes with me.

I also like it if my dog lays against me. I guess, even though she is little, I feel safer. She does growl or bark if she hears someone come up there stairs and isn't expecting it. Like my son, or husband. She's a good little alarm.

I've noticed I've been talking to myself that it's okay to go to sleep. Today, if I get out, I'm going to look for those oils to help me sleep.

 

[Deleted member 12723]

I have my problems when I first wake up. Nights are good for me. I have been staying up late alot. I consider it my me time. I am most functional at night. I do not know why. I have a real hard time in the mornings. I guess I will have to journal about this.

Sorry I have not been much help to you. I hope the advice and tips will help you out well. Hugs. I really feel for all of you who have such a hard time at night.