What are the medical reasons for my insomnia, and how do I overcome them?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am having problems with sleep. Sometimes after I fall asleep, I get up but cannot open my eyes or mouth. I am conscious but cannot get up. Also, I wake up feeling exhausted. I have had this problem for the past three years after facing a few problems with my job. I do not take medications, though I sometimes try Unisom when I am having trouble sleeping. I have been told that there is a spiritual reason for this, but I would like to know whether this is a medical or psychological issue or not. Please guide me.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Sleep disturbance is one of the symptoms of depression and anxiety as well. Do you have any futuristic fears, worries, anxieties, or apprehensions related to the past event you mentioned in your history? If yes that you have to see how it affects your daily life apart from sleep disturbance. Taking an antihistamine for sleep is not a good idea; it is better to have a proper psychiatric assessment. Psychiatric treatment has two modalities medication and psychotherapy sessions. People with mild symptoms do not require medication but counseling. If symptoms are sufficient enough to affect the quality of life, it is better to be on medication to get back to normal life because continuous illness may cause other medical issues.

My advice:

Go for a daily walk for at least 30 minutes on an empty stomach.
Spend quality time with family and friends.
Identify negative thoughts in your mind and discuss them.
Have a healthy diet.
Avoid alcohol, smoking, or any other addictive substances.

Feel free to revert in case of any queries.

Thank you.