How To Address Nighttime Anxiety
If you find yourself caught in the web of nighttime worries and endless rumination, you're not alone. In fact, you're among a legion of night owls who've gritted their teeth against the non-stop stream of worries, “what-if’s”, and reviewing past encounters. And it definitely isn’t restful! Lack of quality rest will only aggravate our anxiety the next day.
So, let's take a beat to check out some actions you can take to try to turn your sleepless nights into more restful and rejuvenating ones.
What is Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?
Generalized Anxiety Disorder is more than the typical worries and stress that everyone experiences from time to time. It's an anxiety disorder characterized by persistent and excessive worry about various aspects of life, often without a specific cause or identifiable trigger. Individuals with GAD find it challenging to control their worrying thoughts, and the anxiety can interfere with their daily functioning.
The Connection between Sleep, Anxiety, and Stress
Sleep is essential for managing anxiety and stress. Lack of sleep can worsen our mental health symptoms, while consistently getting enough restful sleep can help us feel more balanced and emotionally regulated.
By setting a consistent sleep schedule, creating a sleep-conducive environment, practicing relaxation techniques, limiting caffeine and alcohol consumption, and seeking therapy if needed, we can prioritize our sleep hygiene and promote better mental health.