Conquering Insomnia: A Personal Journey to Understanding Sleep Issues

Experiencing insomnia for over four years, Chloe Hamilton recently discovered that her sleep troubles stem from a lesser-known condition linked to anxiety. After attempting various common remedies without success, Hamilton’s journey highlights a growing concern about mental health and its impact on sleep.

Hamilton’s sleepless nights began during the final trimester of her first pregnancy. The challenges of motherhood, including caring for a newborn, further complicated her ability to rest. Despite her son eventually sleeping through the night, Hamilton found herself caught in a cycle of disrupted sleep. Her insomnia fluctuated, leaving her frustrated and exhausted.

As Hamilton navigated her sleep struggles, she developed a phenomenon she coined “bed dread,” which intensified her anxiety about going to bed. This fear stemmed from the anticipation of another sleepless night and the exhausting repercussions of fatigue. The mental toll was as significant as the physical consequences, leading her to alter her social life drastically.

“I began cancelling evening plans, avoiding any stimulating activities before bed, and isolating myself in an attempt to find calm,” Hamilton recounted. “But these efforts only fueled my anxiety.” This shift in behaviour, while well-intentioned, created a paradox where the fear of sleeplessness became a dominant force in her life.

The constant mental chatter increased her anxiety, making her hyper-aware of any physical sensations that might disrupt her sleep. She described nights filled with racing thoughts, worries about the upcoming day, and a heightened sense of physical discomfort. “It feels as if my body is betraying me, as though I’ve forgotten how to simply fall asleep,” she expressed.

Sleeplessness has impacted significant events in Hamilton’s life, including her wedding day in 2023, where she managed only three hours of sleep. Despite appearing joyful in photographs, she reflects on a persistent sense of exhaustion that overshadowed the occasion.

While Hamilton has sought therapy to address her anxiety and obsessive-compulsive tendencies, she has not found a definitive solution to her sleep issues. Although she has been advised to consider sleeping tablets, she remains hesitant to start on that path. Instead, she is focusing on improving her “sleep hygiene,” such as reducing screen time before bed and creating a more calming environment.

“I understand that my sleep problem is intertwined with my anxiety, which complicates finding a straightforward solution,” Hamilton noted. She is determined to regain control over her sleep patterns, especially with a new season of her favourite show, The Celebrity Traitors, premiering soon.

To aid others experiencing similar struggles, Dr. Lindsay Browning, a sleep expert at troublesleeping.co.uk, offers several strategies to improve sleep quality. These include:

1. **Exercise**: Engaging in physical activity during the day can enhance alertness after a poor night’s rest. Dr. Browning advises against vigorous exercise close to bedtime, as it may hinder sleep.

2. **Manage Anxiety**: She emphasizes the importance of avoiding obsessive routines that may heighten anxiety. Acknowledging that one bad night won’t ruin overall health is crucial for mental well-being.

3. **Stay Hydrated**: While it’s common to limit fluid intake before bed to avoid bathroom visits, Dr. Browning suggests sipping small amounts of water in the hour leading up to sleep to prevent dehydration.

4. **Mindful Eating**: Consuming heavy, sugary foods before bedtime can lead to indigestion. Dr. Browning recommends light snacks that provide slow-release energy, such as whole grain toast or porridge.

5. **Seek Medical Advice**: If sleep problems persist, consulting with a healthcare professional is essential to rule out conditions like sleep apnoea or thyroid issues.

Hamilton’s story serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between mental health and sleep. As she continues her journey to better sleep, she hopes to find relief and reclaim the restful nights that elude her.