Why can't I sleep, even though I take a sleeping pill?
2 Answers
Last Updated: 11/23/2020 at 8:59am
Moderated by
Stacy Overton, PhD.
Counselor
I am an enthusiastic life-long learner and also a professor of counseling. I have a passion for peoples stories and helping to guide and empower the human spirit.
Top Rated Answers
I am not really an expert, but have you looked into insomnia? It can be caused by:
*stress
*depression
*anxiety
*trauma
*other medication
*sleep environment/sleep schedule
*etc.
and sometimes sleeping pills don't work. Having a routine is good, for example having a cool, dark and quiet sleeping area, turning off all screens an hour before sleep, avoiding stressful activities before bed, and avoiding naps. Other things to help is avoiding alcohol, liquids before bed, caffeine, and large dinners.
Good sleep is dependent on a variety of factors. Falling asleep usually requires a good bedtime routine. This means less screen time (blue light stimulates our eyes), no bedtime snacks, and maybe taking a warm shower or drinking a nice cold glass of water can help, too. When it comes to the act of sleep itself, it is helpful when you have a consistent rhythm. That means generally going to bed at the same time and waking up at the same time every single day. Good sleep is also promoted in darkness. I believe that studies have shown that exposure to light can actually inhibit the production of melatonin. Additionally there are some benefits to sleeping in colder temperatures. The last thing that might help you to fall asleep is taking some time in your nightly routine to clear your headspace. You can do this through some sort of meditation, prayer (if you're into that), or even just light reading.
Related Questions: Why can't I sleep, even though I take a sleeping pill?
At what point does sleep deprivation become a problem?How much sleep should I get daily? Why do I wake up sweating?How do I stop over thinking at night?How can I put down my phone and go to sleep?What does it mean when your dreams feel so real?Why do I wake up every hour, on the hour?What could it mean if I am sleeping too much?Why can't I sleep at night?How much screen time is too much?