I’ve been struggling with sleep issues for over a decade now. My Doctor has prescribed me all sorts of medication, all of which has had many adverse side effects. What I do know that works, is Xanax. My wife was prescribed it for some stress issues and occasionally will give me one so I can finally sleep. Obviously asking my Doctor, “can I have Xanax” Will not go well. I’ve eluded to it in ways and the response has always been along the lines of “that’s habit forming, I’d rather you try this”. Of the many medications prescribed, none have worked. Resorting to the dark web is something I’d really rather not do. Fentanyl laced drugs took my sister and it’s a road I hope to not have to explore. Any suggestions?

  • ultranaut@lemmy.world
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    6 months ago

    Listening to a slightly boring audiobook has been the most consistently effective method I’ve found. Also, I had to give up caffeine.

      • ultranaut@lemmy.world
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        6 months ago

        It’s easier if you cut back first so your body gets used to having less of it. I started by only having any before 12pm, then 10am, then I cut out energy drinks entirely, then I’d do part decaf coffee until I finally went full decaf. I definitely noticed some headaches and felt kind of shit occasionally but I don’t remember it being too terrible.

      • Num10ck@lemmy.world
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        6 months ago

        but gaining sleep is quite worth it.

        also consider a hot bath/spa.

        its all about relaxing your thoughts and your muscles. stop trying to figure things out and let go.

        im surprised i havent seen more mention of deep breathing. if you can relax all your muscles and then drop your breathing down to 8 seconds a breathe, you should drift off to sleep within a few minutes.

        • Anissem@lemmy.mlOP
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          6 months ago

          I’ve of taking some meditation classes or something. The stress has taken its toll on my health and I don’t know how much more my body can take.

          • Num10ck@lemmy.world
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            6 months ago

            you have to figure out if the stress source is worth it to you. maybe you can change your work situation or expectations. maybe its a combination of 10 things and you can control 3 of them.

            • Anissem@lemmy.mlOP
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              6 months ago

              I’m a freelance video editor for reality tv. It’s extremely stressful, especially now with the state of the industry. I’ve let my other skills (used to be a programmer and designer in the video game industry) decay far too much and frankly that industry isn’t faring too well either. There’s really no great answer for my occupation. I just really need to learn how to manage the stresses of life for another 10-15 years before I can retire. Just hoping I can make it to that goal.

              • Num10ck@lemmy.world
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                6 months ago

                maybe make a list of 20 places you’d rather work and reach out to them. and set some boundaries with your crazy family members.

                • Anissem@lemmy.mlOP
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                  6 months ago

                  I understand where you’re coming from but it’s not that simple. I’m freelance, it’s all gig based.

                  • Num10ck@lemmy.world
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                    6 months ago

                    Reality shows tend to be lower paying than average, and are harder to edit because they are loosely scripted at best. theres lots of other things you could be editing.

      • Optional@lemmy.world
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        6 months ago

        Decaf soda is also good. A little harder to find but it won’t beat up your stomach like caffeinated soda.

        • Anissem@lemmy.mlOP
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          6 months ago

          I jumped off the soda train long ago. I just drink way too much coffee, it’s going to be tough to give that one up