Incurable insomia

[sunshineofurlove]

I have been suffering from insomia for over 20 years. The last 15 years I have been averaging two and a half to three hours sleep. I can be falling asleep watching tv and then go lie down in bed and not be able to fall asleep. for a couple of hours and when I do I am only asleep for about 3 hours.  I have taken so many different types of anti depressants to help me with sleep but none of them have worked. Is there help out there?

[petercooper]

A related discussion, Insomnia was started.

[allmymarbles]

Have you ever looked for a physical cause? The first assumption is always that it is a psychological problem. I suffered severe insomnia for 30 years. Finally, after those years of misery it was found to be an endocrine problem. Now I sleep, but am still furious that the doctors were so single-minded. You might have your thyroid and adrenals checked.

[Latupina]

I really sympathise with you as I have suffered with insomnia for 23 years!

Having tried lots of pills and therapy in the early years which didn't work, I have tried to cope with it and lead a relatively normal life.

However, my insomnia refuses to go away so I decided recently to request a referral to a cognitive therapist as I feel my problem is definitely psychologically based.  

I think you firstly have to recognise whether your own insomnia is a physical or a psychological symptom.

There is definitely no quick fix.  I know myself it will take time and effort (something I don't particularly relish)!

However, I am a busy working Mum and I am not prepared to carry on living this half life, feeling dreadfully tired and unable to enjoy life.

Good luck to you!
Remember, you're not alone.
x

[Gregg D Jacobs, Ph.D.]

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is now the first line treatment for insomnia. You can learn more about it in my blogs or by visiting my website.

Dr. Jacobs
www.cbtforinsomnia.com