Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I'm 27 years old, and I have been suffering from insomnia for almost four years, and I feel that the condition began to affect me at about the same time as the occurrence of a number of stress factors in my life. I've attempted sleep hygiene practices, abstaining from caffeine, and taking sleep medications, but these have been ineffective.
That is why I keep wondering, can insomnia at 27 go away if the underlying anxiety and trauma are treated? Because some nights my body feels exhausted, yet my mind keeps replaying old experiences the moment I lie down.
I am starting therapy soon and hoping it helps, but I am worried the sleep issues may have become permanent after so many years. I do not know whether insomnia caused by anxiety and trauma can fully resolve or if it usually requires separate long-term treatment as well.
Kindly help.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I read your query and can understand your concern.
I am sorry you have been dealing with this for so long. What you describe is actually very common in people whose insomnia is closely tied to anxiety, chronic stress, or past traumatic experiences.
If the brain is kept in the heightened state of alertness, it may not be easy for the brain to get into the state of rest, even if the body is extremely tired. It seems like the mind begins to relive its past experiences as soon as the body hits the bed. This indicates the influence of stress on causing insomnia.
The good news about this condition is that insomnia that is either induced or made worse because of anxiety and trauma is curable, and a number of individuals get better once the problems behind it are treated.
Four years of insomnia does not mean the problem has become permanent. However, because sleep difficulties can develop their own patterns over time, some people benefit from treating both the anxiety or trauma and the insomnia itself. Approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia, along with trauma-focused or anxiety-focused therapy, can be particularly effective.
It is a good start when beginning therapy, and there is nothing wrong about feeling optimistic. It may take some time because of how long you’ve had sleep issues, but eventually, you’ll notice that as your anxiety levels drop and you deal with tough memories, your sleep improves.
I hope this helps.
Thank you and take care.
Regards.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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