Anxiety when trying to fall asleep

[Drew]

For some reason I can't quite put a finger on it but that is really the only time I have anxiety. After everyone goes to sleep and I am trying to go to sleep it will rear it's ugly head from time to time. My main trigger is breathing. I seem to try to get a deep breath but can't always do it. Sounds stupid I know but it seems to be what starts it all. I am so stubborn I keep trying to go to sleep and will not like get up and take something or get a drink of water. I know I need to just focus on something else but seem to have issues doing that. Any advice will help.
Thanks Drew

[paradoxos]

You're right that you need to focus on something else, but that's easier said than done.  I sometimes have trouble taking in a full, satisfying breath when I'm in bed. I've found that sitting up in bed and leaning forward helps me to breathe better. I'm not sure why that is, I just know it works for me.  I can then take several deep breaths, and that relaxes me to the point that I can go to sleep.

-DAVID

[JaysKristina]

on or off meds nightime is always hard for me....make sure your bed is comfy, and I have a white noise app on my cell phone that really helps me out. I think you can download it free on pc.

[simbalion]

I just had a night like that last night. It feels like I can't breath right and have to sit up to do so. Usually hits when I have too much on my mind and when I seem to fall asleep too fast. Falling asleep suddenly can often jolt me. Usually I try to calm my mind and think of pleasant things. This might sound odd, but sometimes thinking of fun or naughty things can help me as well.

[LezlieAugust]

I'm with David, that's what helps me feel like I can breathe better so I can get to sleep.  I'm not sure why either, but I've stopped trying to figure it out and I do it when I need to. 

Lezlie

[tony21]

i had a sleep study done friday night,i couldnt go to sleep immediately because anxiety was through the roof.if anyone here has sleep apnea,how does it affect your panic/anxiety?i have read it can cause depression also.

[VincentDegen]

When my panic attacks first hit at age 15, it was just as I was in the falling asleep process and for the next 19 years 80% of my anxiety had been in that area.

My "problem focus" during the falling asleep process has shifted a few times. At first it was hyperventilation and shortness of breath that I just could not seem to stop, then it switched to chest pains, and finally (up until today, on the rare occasions that I do get anxious) feelings of feverish heat.

Medication helped with the severity of the anxiety, but the true healing for me came from studying and practicing meditation and relaxation techniques. Nowadays I can fall asleep almost anywhere, anytime.

Aloha!

Marcus