Anxious and Sleepless But Not Powerless

Anxiety and sleep problems can have a twisted, rather enmeshed relationship with each other. They each have a similar goal: to make us miserable. They are evil little accomplices on a mission to rule our world. It’s bad enough when just one of them is working its sinister plan within us, but when they join forces and attack us simultaneously, it’s downright miserable.

Anxiety and Sleep Problems

It doesn't always matter which one of the malicious mates starts the attack. Sometimes it’s sleep, or, more accurately, the lack thereof. Sleepless nights spent tossing and turning or watching bad television wreak havoc on our whole being; aspects of physical and mental health are compromised. It’s not uncommon for anxiety disorders to surface when sleep is poor.

Sometimes anxiety is the instigator of the fight to control us. Anxious worries and fearful concerns race through our minds day and night. All day and all night -- all through the long night. No matter what we do, our worries won’t wane. The thoughts just won’t stop even when we scream at them to be quiet. This makes it difficult, if not impossible, to sleep. With barely any restorative sleep to energize us, the next day is a struggle, problems seem insurmountable, and anxiety skyrockets even higher.

Anxiety and sleep deprivation leave us exhausted and fatigued. We’re beaten down, but each of these beasts gain strength and power. Lack of sleep contributes to anxiety, making it stronger. Anxiety contributes to lack of sleep, making insomnia tougher. Where, then, do “we” – ourselves, our beings – fit? We might sometimes feel defenseless, but we aren't. Tune in to this brief audio for some pointers for taming anxiety and sleep problems.

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