Picture this: You’re cozied up in your bed and ready to fall asleep when you suddenly remember something urgent you forgot to finish during the day or an embarrassing situation that happened a week ago. Instead of drifting off to sleep, you’re now awake and anxious — what do you do?
Stress and anxiety can become a vicious cycle when trying to fall asleep. Worries can keep you awake, and then you are worrying about worrying. On top of that, sleep deprivation can trigger stress, so it’s important to form good sleep habits to avoid a cycle of sleepless nights.
Dr. Victoria Sharma medical director of the Sharp Grossmont Hospital Comprehensive Sleep Center, shares these five tips for falling back asleep when late-night anxiety strikes.
Set a designated worry time.
Schedule some time toward the end of the day, but not too close to bedtime, to think about all the things that are causing you stress.
“Make a list of anything you have to do, any problems and worries you have,” says Dr. Sharma. "Then, write down the next step toward solving the problem or accomplishing the task. This allows you to process your worries ahead of time, making it less likely that you will think about those things in the middle of the night."
“When worries persist, try progressive muscle relaxation, mindfulness or meditation,” says Dr. Sharma.
There are several mindful breathing techniques that can help with stress. Try out a few to see which strategy works best for you.
“Do not stay in bed longer than 20 to 30 minutes if you can’t sleep,” says Dr. Sharma. “Get out of bed and do something quiet and boring in dim lighting until you feel sleepy again, then go back to bed. Repeat if needed.”
While you’re out of bed, try reading a book, doing a puzzle or listening to relaxing music.
Although doing an activity may take your mind off your worries, you should avoid watching TV, reading books or using devices such as phones and laptops while in bed. Get out of bed to help yourself relax and come back when you are feeling tired again.
Staying in bed and looking at the clock will not help you fall asleep faster or ease your worries. In fact, it could increase your stress levels.
“Do not look at the clock in the middle of the night,” says Dr. Sharma. “It doesn't matter what time it is; if it’s not morning yet, try to go back to sleep or get out of bed.”
Everyone is different, but most people need between six and 10 hours of sleep each night. So keep these tips in mind the next time worrisome thoughts come up close to bedtime.
If a sleep disorder is disrupting life, the skilled team of medical experts at the Sharp Grossmont Hospital Comprehensive Sleep Center can help.
