Conquering My Insomnia Caused by Worry and Stress: A Multi-Pronged Approach to Regaining Deep Sleep Part 1 of 2

Understanding the Link Between Worry, Stress, and Insomnia

Having trouble sleeping? Stress could be the culprit! My worries and anxiety kept my mind racing at night and it led to insomnia. The effects of stress on sleep are real, but understanding how stress impacts your sleep patterns can help you find solutions to get a better night's rest.

Worry, stress, and insomnia often form a vicious cycle that can disrupt our sleep patterns and overall well-being. When we are overwhelmed by worries or stressed about various aspects of our lives, it can significantly impact our ability to fall asleep and stay asleep.

Research has shown that stress hormones like cortisol can interfere with the natural sleep-wake cycle, making it difficult for us to relax and drift off into restful slumber. The more we worry or feel stressed, the harder it becomes to achieve a peaceful night's sleep.

Moreover, worry-induced insomnia can lead to a range of negative effects on both our physical and mental health. From decreased concentration and productivity during the day to increased irritability and mood swings, the repercussions of poor sleep due to stress are far-reaching.

This was me in 2019. A combination of a variety of events happening in my life slowly ate away at my peace of mind and ability to sleep. Insomnia due to worry can persist for months. In my case it lasted nine months, affecting both my physical health and mental well-being…until I finally made the decision to DO something about it. It's essential to address the root causes of our stress and anxiety to break free from this cycle of sleep deprivation.

Understanding this link between worry, stress, and insomnia is crucial in finding effective ways to break this cycle. By addressing the root causes of our worries and implementing healthy coping mechanisms for stress management, we can improve our sleep quality and overall quality of life. Remember, prioritizing self-care practices such as mindfulness meditation, regular exercise, and maintaining a consistent bedtime routine can all contribute to better managing stress levels and promoting restful sleep.

In this 2-part blog series, I share my personal journey from insomnia back to deep sleep.

The Nine-Month Battle: How Prolonged Insomnia Impacted My Health and Wellbeing

Prolonged insomnia took a toll on both my physical and mental well-being. The effects of long-term insomnia went beyond just feeling tired during the day. It led to a range of health consequences, affecting various aspects of my life.

My chronic sleep deprivation weakened my immune system, making me more susceptible to illnesses. It also affected my cognitive functions, leading to difficulties in concentration, memory issues, and impaired decision-making skills. Difficulty making decisions affected both my family and work life. And let’s not forget, my insomnia made me cranky, grumpy and irritable. The mental health impact of sleep deprivation should not be underestimated. Chronic lack of sleep can contribute to mood disorders like depression and anxiety too.

The recovery process from my extended period of insomnia was challenging but essential for restoring my health and preventing these negative consequences from taking a toll on my body, mind and relationships. Prioritizing good sleep hygiene and seeking professional help were essential steps in my journey back to deep sleep. My first step was self-awareness that I needed to prioritize myself so that I could be my best self.

Task: If you are suffering from insomnia, seek out the root cause of your insomnia. What is causing your stress? What is causing your worry? A medical professional and a life coach can help you get to the root so you can start your YOUR journey to a good night’s sleep.