Hi all
This is my first ever post on this platform, apologies in advance as this is a stupid question I know but I thought possibly speaking/reaching out to people on here might help me by listening to other people’s thoughts on this ongoing problem I seem to have. I know that sometimes talking about these things can help.
A little over 12 months ago I went through a bad phase with sleep. I’ve always slept well, with no issues. However, about 12 months ago I started sleeping badly, I went through nights of being unable to sleep at all, I’d get into bed and become very anxious about not sleeping and being tired the next day. I eventually came out the other end of it (after a little help from talking therapy provided by work) and now I sleep like a baby without any issues most of the time. However, the fear of not sleeping has never really gone away, and it’s still there to a certain extent.
As of now, I find myself struggling to sleep if I know I’m doing something the next day which I really want to do/or I’m excited about. My brain kicks into fear mode and I start thinking “what if I won’t be able to do XYZ due to lack of sleep/tiredness”.
For example, a specific situation is coming up which I’m currently quite worried about. I’ll explain it to you. In two weeks, I’m off to the states on a family holiday, I’m really looking forward to this holiday but as ever my mind is now starting to run away with itself re sleep.
The first worry I have is, “what happens if I don’t sleep for 2/3 nights before the flight”, I’ll be so tired that they won’t let me board the plane because I’m unwell / hallucinating etc. I’m then worried about getting there, so for example, “what happens if I get there and don’t sleep in the hotel”, the holiday will be ruined etc., I’ll be so tired I won’t enjoy myself.
I know the above sounds very silly; I feel silly writing it to be honest. But listening to your thoughts whatever they may be might help me. Has anyone got any thoughts, how they would feel, what they would think / do etc? Would not sleeping for 2/3 nights ruin things etc?
Thanks so much in advance! I just want to be able to relax and enjoy my holiday.