I hear you, and I can only imagine how exhausting and overwhelming this must feel for you. Struggling with sleep isnât just about restâitâs about feeling safe enough to let go. When our body has learned to stay on high alert, especially after a distressing experience like the one you had three years ago, sleep can start feeling like something we have to fight for instead of something that naturally happens. It makes sense that the more you fear not sleeping, the harder it becomes to relaxâbecause your body is protecting you in the only way it knows how.
Next Steps
Instead of forcing sleep, letâs shift the focus to creating a sense of safety at night. This can involve gentle relaxation techniques, journaling before bed to release anxious thoughts, or even guided body scans to remind your nervous system that itâs okay to rest. Working with a therapist on trauma-informed approaches can help process the root of this anxiety so that sleeplessness no longer feels like a threat. Exploring CBT for Insomnia (CBT-I) and emotional regulation tools can make a significant difference in breaking this cycle.
Health Tips
â Try self-compassionate reframingâremind yourself, I am safe. My body knows how to rest. â Instead of lying in bed forcing sleep, engage in a calming activity like reading or deep breathing. â Movement, sunlight, and gentle structure during the day can help regulate your internal rhythm.