We all lead very hectic lives and it seems like we are non-stop under stress. In fact, we are stressed over our job, finances, family or personal issues. Leading a stressful life can be detrimental and might be the reason you experience insomnia. Well, guess what? You are not alone!

In fact, about 46% of the respondents to a survey published in the American Journal of Managed Care experience some kind of insomnia, including difficulties falling or staying asleep. Thus, it’s important to note that it is very often the case that insomnia is stress-related.

Dealing with insomnia can have a huge effect on your life. Being sleep deprived might make a person more emotional and mentally slower. Moreover, long-lasting insomnia might increase the levels of stress and thus, contribute to stress-related insomnia. Hence, if you are dealing with stress-related insomnia, here is how to deal with the condition.

How to Deal with Stress-Related Insomnia

Journaling

If you often find yourself having difficulties falling or staying asleep and this causes stress during the day, you might want to try a very simple but effective technique, called journaling. This means that you should note down and brainstorm all things which are causing you stress. Journaling will help you clear your mind, get in touch with your emotions, and manage your stress levels.

Progressive Muscle Relaxation

Stress and tension can be the culprit for having difficulties falling asleep. Thus, a great tool to eliminate the tension from your body is progressive muscle relaxation. This technique is a skill and you might need some extra time to master it, but once you do, you will find it very beneficial. 

Don’t Pressure Yourself

You should learn to take the pressure of sleep which will help you eliminate the stress you are feeling about sleeping. Hence, forget about looking at the clock all the time, don’t go to bed if you don’t feel sleepy and engage in some simple activities before bedtime to ease your mind. Moreover, don’t go to bed with any gadgets and avoid caffeine after the afternoon. Last but not least, reading a book before bedtime really helps.

Seek Help

Many people who suffer from insomnia don’t usually seek help for the condition. However, it is the wrong thing to do as there are many things you can do to alleviate the condition and its symptoms. Some of the things which really help with insomnia are medications and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Hence, if you are experiencing stress-related insomnia, it’s very important to talk to your doctor about your options.

Face Your Challenges

Instead of neglecting your anxiety and not dealing with the things which cause you to stress, you should learn to face any challenge in your life. So, look at the situation over which you are stressed as a challenge rather than a threat. Get into action and decision-making mode.