What can I do to help myself?
The most important thing is to think about why you have a sleep problem. Consider the points above – is it because of worry?
The patterns we have before going to bed can be important. Relaxing activities like having a bath or reading a book can help people to get off to sleep. Playing video games or watching action films is probably not helpful! Make sure the sleeping place is the right temperature and that there’s not too much light.
Try to go to bed at roughly the same time each night and to get up at the same time each morning – a routine like this can help.
Try to avoid nicotine and other stimulants right before bedtime.
Finally, don’t let not being able to sleep become the worry that keeps you awake! No-one is awake for ever, and worrying about it will make the problem worse.
Real Life Experience
If you’d like to share your real life experience, please email tewv.vrc@nhs.net.
