Often, we feel an overwhelming sense of anxiety just before we go to sleep at night. This could be due to a variety of reasons – from not being able to distract ourselves to increased levels of cortisol – the stress hormone. However, we need to manage night-time anxiety effectively to get good sleep and improve our sleep patterns. Night-time anxiety can affect the body’s circadian rhythm. Therapist Israa Nasir, in a social media post, decoded the causes of night-time anxiety and shared some tips that can help us manage it.
Also read: Fight anxiety and depression with these morning rituals this morning
Lack of distractions:
We are so overwhelmed with work and stress throughout the day that we don’t have time to think about the things that are bothering us. The lack of distractions at night can make us feel overwhelmed, leading to anxiety at night.
Increased cortisol levels:
When we are stressed, the body’s cortisol levels can increase – this can contribute to even more stress and anxiety. At night, when we think about heavy thoughts, this can trigger cortisol levels.
racing thoughts:
Ruminating about the past or worrying about the future can send thoughts into a tailspin – this can lead to increased anxiety at night, leaving us feeling overwhelmed.
Also read: Nourish your nervous system: Doctors share 5 tips to relieve stress and anxiety
Physical symptoms:
Nighttime anxiety can manifest as physical symptoms, such as a rapid heartbeat, muscle tension, and shallow breathing.
Stress and Life Events:
When we’re already stressed by many things, like sudden changes or major life events, nighttime worries can make our thoughts even worse.
Also read: Do you feel anxious as soon as you wake up in the morning? Know how to deal with it
Tips to deal with nighttime anxiety:
Organizing the living space or making the bed can take our mind off stress, and relax the nervous system. Often, writing down our thoughts and worries in a journal makes us feel less on our minds. Before bed, we can get into the habit of meditating or listening to music to feel relaxed and at peace. We can connect with our bodies and observe our breaths as well.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor for any questions about any medical condition.
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