Lived Experience Forum

[Lee82]

Hi, this is my first time being a part of any type of forum. I am a little unsure and anxious about it. I have joined up hoping to get some support and to meet new people who perhaps share the same things I do and can understand my state of mind. 
3 things about me:

I am a single parent to 2 boys

I love to read

I love summer 

[Zoe7]

Hey @Lee82 and welcome to the forum. It can take a little time to work your way around but you are amongst a wonderful community here who are very supportive of each other. Have a look around some threads and ask any questions you may have.  

[Lee82]

Thank you so much Zoe7. I appreciate your response 

[Zoe7]

Hey @Lee82 You are up late also - it can be a difficult time for many. I am watching ABC and of course on here. Not sure when I will finally be able to get some sleep but keeping occupied for now. What are you up to?

[Lee82]

I am also watching tv. Can't sleep which has been a recurring theme atm. My mind just won't shut off and my body is riddeled with anxiety. 

[Zoe7]

Been there myself @Lee82 It makes it really hard to get any sort of rest let alone sleep when anxiety is through the roof and thoughts are racing. For a very long time I just could not sleep but luckily with meds and ongoing support that has improved. Are there any things you have found that help?

[Lee82]

Not really. I am too on meds but find that they dont help much.i have been through a few different ones but now my psychiatrist just keeps putting the dose up.
 What do you find helps when you can't sleep. I have tried a few things in the past but most of the time they just make me more anxious. 

[Define_normal]

Hi @Lee82, and @Zoe7 

I also find it hard to sleep lately @Lee82, especially since carona started at the same time as my sons asthma season which has been pretty bad the last two days but i am still able to manage it at home for now dont know what im gonna do when he needs a dr really dont want him out of the house

[Zoe7]

It took nearly 2 years for my team and I to finally find the right meds, combinations and dosages that worked @Lee82 That made a significant difference - especialy in reducing nightmares and flashbacks and allowing me to get some sleep. I also had so much support here on the forum - many people helping me through, staying up late and providing a little hope when I could not see any - that made the world of difference to me. It really was the meds that helped me and now when I can't sleep I try not to stress about it - harder said than done when it is a continual pattern though. None of the usual mindfulness or meditations have ever worked for me - some have infact made it worse but we are all different so maybe worth a try.

[Lee82]

Hi @Define_normal 

@I'm sorry to hear your son is suffering from asthma. My 8 year old son also suffers from asthma. He is starting to cough a little at night and I understand the anxiety around going to the doctors during this difficult time. I too feel anxious about going to the doctors. Maybe a phone call to your local GP would be an option. Maybe you can speak to your doctor over the phone.