Posted by JenStar on May 30, 2005, at 12:24:00
In reply to Re: I can't sleep!, posted by Deneb on May 29, 2005, at 2:26:23
hi Deneb,
most doctors are reluctant to give sleep aids out, especially to people who are younger.I know when I was in my 20's and starting a new job, I also couldn't sleep for like 3 days. I'm sure I DID sleep for several hours here and there, but it sure didn't feel like it!
I practically begged my doctor for a sleep aid but she refused. She DID offer me an evaluation and an antidepressant therapy, saying that sleep aids usually mask a larger problem and can cause dependency. I was irritated at her but later, once I had calmed down, realized she was right.
Deneb, you have some serious issues with depression, anxiety, and expansive moods, as well as the urge to self-injure. Sleep aids and Xanax (or Ativan) are NOT going to help, long-term. They will only mask your issues while they get worse. You really, really need to get professional help for this!
I've also found that when I'm extremely anxious AND over-tired, over-stimulated maybe, it takes Ativan/Xanax a Looooong time to work. Don't take more, just lie down in a calm place and do deep breathing exercises.
The prescribed dose will work, just give it an hour sometimes. It takes your body a while to relax. For me, I lie there and breathe very deeply from the chest, with my hands folded under my ribcage so I can feel the air going in and out. I breath slowly, deeply, and try to think relaxing thought. Eventually I start to relax. But really, don't take extra meds. You'll just feel crappy later on, and you don't need it.
Deneb, I hope you're doing well!
JenStar
poster:JenStar
thread:503343
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20050525/msgs/505219.html