Tips for getting through the night home alone

[Flower836385]

Posting in AIBU for traffic…
I was a victim of a violent crime as a child so I am scared of the dark as an almost 40 year old. My husband is working away and I need to get through tonight in my house and try and get some sleep. Usually if he’s away I end up staying awake until about 3:30am when I’m too tired to not fall asleep. I feel too scared to go to sleep. Recent news about home invasions in the US also spook me and I can’t stop thinking about them and imagining an intruder is in my house.
Id really like to try and get a few hours sleep tonight as I’ve got a full day ahead tomorrow with two little kids.
Any tips?
I already semi barricade my door,(don’t worry I can get to the kids) and leave the tv on.

thanks!

I have ptsd etc but I’m alone a lot and used to live alone for years with DC. Things that stop my brain panicking so I’ve planned for everything

a planned way out of the house
window slightly ajar so you can get help
soft lighting
leave a light on downstairs so a looks like someone’s down there still b can see if there’s an emergency
if you have kids feeling bad share with them
radio on or audio books
relaxing hot drink
if you have pets share with them, if you don’t have pets they are my lifeline

you will be ok 💐

Hope you get some rest op.
I’d suggest being mindful what you watch/read before bed especially unfamiliar tv programmes or news items that might feature something that could trigger you.
familiar books or light comedy might work.

I feel for you OP. I am also afraid of the dark following trauma. I sleep with a side light on in the bedroom when my DH is away. I can echo PP who say that a burglar alarm with sensors on any accessible windows and doors is invaluable for peace of mind. I also leave a light on in another bedroom or two so one is visible from front and back. My mum always says that a burglar will never take the risk that it’s someone who works nights, or up with a child - it just gives enough uncertainty they’ll go elsewhere.

Just wanted to send a supportive message ❤️ I totally relate and find it hard to sleep in the house alone. Lots of useful tips here - for future look at the Ring alarm system, which has sensors you can stick onto doors / windows. I don’t have one (I have a dog instead!), but my mum does and it’s very reassuring when the system says “home and armed” once you’ve typed in the code! Good luck tonight, I’m sending sleepy vibes xxx

Get an alarm? It helps with the anxiety that someone is in the house. A basic Ring package is around £300-400, you really sleep better

A - barking dogs are a burglar deterrent.
B - I like knowing he's on the bed protecting me.

Having my dog sleep upstairs in my room was when I could actually relax and sleep at night when dh was away. She's no longer with us, but I still sleep semi ok.
Not that that will help you @Flower836385 unless you have a dog, but the keeping the lights on downstairs sounds a good idea

I have a lock on my bedroom door too, and I bring the kids in with me and lock my bedroom. I sleep with earplugs so I feel uncomfortable with kids in other rooms with no adult able to hear if they were in danger.

I often spend nights alone at my parents when they’re away. While it’s still light I go round and make sure all the windows are shut (just a quick visual) and lock the doors. Make sure the curtains/ blinds are all shut. We always leave the porch light on anyway and as someone else said I sometimes leave the hall light on too. I always have an audiobook on to sleep anyway but you could always leave the tv on low if that would help. Then I Use my usual sleep aids of lavender oil, rescue remedy, and magnesium foot butter.