People who have an anxiety disorder or suffer panic symptoms are much more likely to have sleep problems. Sleep disorders affect more than a third of adults. Sleeplessness, more commonly known as insomnia is highly common. People who have insomnia have difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep.
The triggers for insomnia are countless and can range from medical health conditions to emotional stress. People who have anxiety disorders are much more prone to develop chronic sleep problems. People who are anxious all the time and have constant thoughts of dread and fear find sleep difficult.
Sufferers might feel agitated, uneasy and unable to relax like something bad is about to happen. During the night, panic symptoms such as palpitations, chest pain, hot flashes and sweats can make sleep difficult. Furthermore, people with anxiety disorders experience 10% of their panic attacks when asleep.
Because they happen without warning they can be highly terrifying experiences. Most sufferers will agree that night panic attacks are more disturbing than daytime attacks. A night attack can be extremely startling and unsettling. Sufferers feel as though they’re having heart attack.
Everything feels magnified and strange and disturbing panic symptoms such as derealization might occur. Many sufferers find it impossible to sleep after an attack are likely to feel anxious through the night. Sufferers start to fear sleep because of panic symptoms and attacks.
They find that their anxiety symptoms increase in the day combined with the fatigue of not being able to sleep. When bedtime comes they dread going to sleep in case of another attack. Feelings of fear and anxiety increase and only exacerbates their condition. The exact reasons for night panic attacks remains to be found.
Studies have shown that the cause of attacks are not related to nightmares. Known to have an impact on anxiety symptoms are a person’s health and lifestyle. Feelings of anxiety intensify with the addition of stress and tension.
Being in a relaxed and calm disposition before sleep can greatly decrease panic symptoms. Make yourself relaxed by meditating or having a warm bath. A light and entertaining magazine or book can help you unwind. Steer clear of alcoholic and caffeinated drinks.
Make your bedroom inviting and comforting to build a positive association. Relaxing music can help your mind drift. If panic attacks still occur, keep calm and don’t worry. Remember that you’ve been here before and that the sensations will pass.