Sleep and don't focus

Ask a Therapist Mental Health Conditions
1

I have trouble sleeping and when I sleep, I oversleep. I feel like my enthusiasm is gone, I’m not focused, I feel like I’m a useless person, I don’t think I should live after that, I don’t think I want to do anything, I don’t want to reply to my friends’ chats, I don’t want to talk

2

Hi Laira

Thank you for taking the first brave step to understand and address what you are currently experiencing. I am sad to hear how tough it has been for you lately. It sounds like you’re going through a very difficult time, and it’s important to acknowledge how challenging this can be. Let’s explore your feelings and some potential steps you can take to address them.

(a)Understanding Your Feelings
(i)Sleep Issues

  • Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep can significantly impact your mood, energy levels, and overall mental health. Oversleeping can also be a sign of emotional exhaustion or depression.
  • Poor sleep can lead to feelings of lethargy and decreased motivation, making it harder to engage in daily activities, including social interactions and work.

(ii)Emotional State

  • Feeling a lack of enthusiasm for activities you once enjoyed is a common sign of emotional distress. This can lead to a cycle of disengagement and further feelings of worthlessness.
  • It’s not uncommon to feel like you’re not contributing or that you’re not living up to your potential during tough times. These feelings can be overwhelming and may lead to thoughts about self-worth and existence.
  • Not wanting to respond to friends or engage in conversations can be a way of coping with emotional pain. It’s a common response when someone feels overwhelmed or disconnected.

(b)Steps to Consider
(i)Acknowledge Your Feelings

  • Recognize that it’s okay to feel this way. Acknowledging your feelings without judgment is the first step toward healing. You are not alone in experiencing these emotions.
  • Try to identify any specific events or situations that may have contributed to your current feelings. Understanding potential triggers can help you address them more effectively.

(ii)Seek Support

  • Consider reaching out to a trusted friend or family member. Sharing your feelings can help lighten the emotional load and provide you with support.

  • Do consider speaking with a mental health professional. Therapy can provide you with tools to cope with your feelings and help you explore underlying issues that may be contributing to your emotional state.

(ii)Focus on Self-Care

  • Creating a daily routine that includes regular sleep patterns, meals, and activities can provide structure and stability. Aim for consistent sleep and wake times to help regulate your sleep cycle.

  • Engaging in light physical activity, such as walking or stretching, can help improve your mood and energy levels. Even short bursts of movement can be beneficial.

  • Practice mindfulness or relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. These practices can help reduce anxiety and improve your overall mental well-being.

  • Reducing screen time, especially before bed, can improve sleep quality. Consider setting boundaries around technology use to help create a more restful environment.

  • Start with small, manageable tasks each day. This could be as simple as getting out of bed, taking a shower, or responding to one message. Celebrate these small victories, as they can help build momentum.

  • Even if you don’t feel like it, try to engage in activities that you used to enjoy, even if just for a few minutes. This can help reignite some enthusiasm and provide a sense of accomplishment.

Your feelings are important, and it’s crucial to take them seriously. It’s okay to seek help and support during this challenging time. Remember, you don’t have to go through this alone, and there are resources and people available to help you navigate your emotions and find a path forward. Prioritizing your mental health and well-being is essential, and taking small steps can lead to positive changes over time. If you ever feel overwhelmed or in crisis, please reach out to a mental health professional or SOS hotline at 1767 for immediate support. Your life is precious Laira, and you 100% deserve to feel better and to find joy in life again. Start small and keep going. :heart:

3

hey there, what you’re going through sounds really rough. It’s ok not feel up for socialising and feeling unenthusiastic, you don’t always have to be at your 100%. It would be good to practise self care and also seek professional help if you are unsure how to move on from here :slight_smile:

4

Hi @Laira , I’m really sorry to hear you’re feeling this way. It sounds like things have been really tough for you lately, especially with sleep and how it’s affecting your overall mood and energy. I wonder if you’ve had a chance to explore what might be keeping you from sleeping well, and how long have you had trouble sleeping?

Sometimes our minds can get really busy when we lie down, making it hard to switch off. You could try setting up a bit of a routine before bed—things like having a consistent bedtime, avoiding your phone or any screens at least an hour before bed, and maybe doing something relaxing like reading or listening to calm music. Gentle exercise during the day can help too, but not too close to bedtime. Creating a peaceful space where you sleep might also help your body and mind wind down more easily.

It’s okay to take a step back if you need some space from friends, but remember, they care about you and would want to know how you’re doing. :slight_smile: