I’ve been struggling with sleep issues for over a decade now. My Doctor has prescribed me all sorts of medication, all of which has had many adverse side effects. What I do know that works, is Xanax. My wife was prescribed it for some stress issues and occasionally will give me one so I can finally sleep. Obviously asking my Doctor, “can I have Xanax” Will not go well. I’ve eluded to it in ways and the response has always been along the lines of “that’s habit forming, I’d rather you try this”. Of the many medications prescribed, none have worked. Resorting to the dark web is something I’d really rather not do. Fentanyl laced drugs took my sister and it’s a road I hope to not have to explore. Any suggestions?
Proper meditation training, and I’m not talking about some quick-fix youtube video.
I’m talking about weeks or months of training, like you’d do at a gym for your body. Just sit down, and focus on not thinking. You’re going to fail a lot as your mind tries to wander, but keep practicing until you can do it for longer and longer. Do this before bed each night, and don’t stimulate yourself in any way (no electronics, no book, no talking, no eating) between the meditation and the sleeping.
Also, trying to have a routine for your bedtime is excellent. Make it into a ritual so your brain gets used to it. Meditate, Go get a glass of water, Put it on your bedside table in the same spot, then go pee, remove and put your clothes in the hamper, climb into bed, get into your preferred sleeping position, and then I usually continue the meditation and I’m out before I know it.
Do this process slowly, there’s no rush. Calm everything. It takes time to complete, but it’s still faster than laying awake for hours like I used to.
Sounds like hokey bullshit, but it works amazingly. It’s like counting sheep on steroids (to continue the gym metaphor)
Thanks for the advice!