THE NIGHTMARES WON'T STOP.

[DizzyRose]

The nightmares are every night now. I can no longer even think about going up to bed. I've been awake for 67 hours but I'm now at the point of being too terrified to sleep. I'm keeping the curtains drawn all day and all night but with every single light on in the house to try to keep the same level of brightness constant. I don't want to know when it's getting dark outside because dark equals night which equals bedtime which equals sleep which equals nightmares about the things my father did to me when I was a kid. The memories of what he did are upsetting enough when I'm awake but in my sleep it's different. I'm back to being the small girl and going through it all again. I feel the fear and the pain just like it was back then.  I can't survive it again. I can't. So I can't sleep any more but I'm frightened all the time because I'm so tired and I know I'm gonna fall asleep because I'm exhausted and he's going to attack me the moment I do. The nightmares have only been a few in the past. Bad but never like now. I'm under a mental health team and all that and they've said they'll help me "tackle" my probs with the nightmares but I need help NOW and lots of it not one hour a week. What do I do? Please please please can somebody help me? The doctors don't seem to understand and I don't know how to talk about it or tell them how it is.

[brice1967]

You're welcome.  I think its important for you to remember that this all won't go away over night.  There will be lots of little victories along the way, and maybe even a few minor setbacks.  With that said, enjoy the victories and learn from the setbacks.

I think you are on the right track, and it looks like your psychiatrist is on the same page as you are.  Just think baby steps!

Good luck to you!

[DizzyRose]

Thanks guys for your comments. They've really helped. Just knowing there's someone out there that understands helps a lot.   I've spoken to my psychiatrist again and he's prescribed an increase in one of my meds. He's also said that when I'm more stable he'll admit me to hospital to do more intense psychological therapy.  THANKS AGAIN, GUYS. XX

[brice1967]

I'm very sorry for what has happened and what is happening right now to you.  I'm sure it is a horrible thing to have to deal with.  

I suggest you talk with your therapist, or call the organization in which your therapist works for.  Chances are that they have a crisis hot line or a therapist on call.  You need to have those numbers available....  tell your therapist exactly what you've said here about the sleep or lack there of, and the lengths you are going to to ensure that there is more than adequate light.  

I do know that lack of sleep, especially as long as you've experienced can cause other problems, like hallucinations etc. which would present other problems all together.

Do yourself a favor and speak to your therapist, explain the severity of the issue and be open to the help.

Good luck

[drifter0213]

i strongly suggest that you see a therapist or even take some counseling for this if it's available. i attend group therapy once or twice a week. if you need support you are in the right place if you need someone to talk to we are here for you ok :)