Depression and Insomnia

Is anyone else experiencing insomnia with their depression? I'm so used to depression leading to "too much" sleep. But I haven't slept on my own in several months. I have been on Zolpidem (i.e. Ambien), and only recently realized that my body just can't sleep at all anymore unless I take it. I thought addiction to sleeping pills would be more jarring, but this was so subtle. I feel so blah during the days, so I sort of don't understand why I don't just fall asleep the minute I lay down. But I have my nightly cry (it's like clockwork) and then my mind just stays awake, repeating the same stupid, hypothetical lectures to myself.

I've tried reading, drinking warm milk, "sleepytime" teas, hot baths, meditative techniques. The only thing that works is the Zolpidem, and I really don't like being dependent on them just for sleep. Any other suggestions?

I'm the same way, it has become really difficult! I asked my P for sleeping meds but because of past attempts she will not give them to me. Instead, I've been taking my anxiety meds at night to sleep...

I was recently diagnosed with adrenal exhaustion and they are saying that is why I am unable to sleep so I am taking adrenal supplements to help rebuild my adrenals. It's tough when you don't get enough sleep because it makes everything much more difficult!

TJ

I also take Ambiem and will not even try to sleep without it (even with it I wake up in the night). Sometimes other depression medications such as Wellbutrin can cause insomnia. If you want to do without the Ambien, try placing an audiobook on (preferably one you have read before) or play music. If you still do not sleep at least you will be entertained and not stressed out.
Good Luck

I'm trying really hard not to have to rely on pills to get me to sleep too. It's tough!! I can't remember what they're called but there are tapes and CDs that you can get that are "sleep therapy" soundtracks. It's usually soft music accompanied by nature sounds, like the sound of the ocean. I've found it really relaxing and helpful for falling asleep. I'm also really bad with music that has lyrics in it because the lyrics will sometimes make me think harder about my life (depending on the song) so I've been listening to a lot of classical music, or songs in languages I don't understand so that I don't get distracted by the lyrics.

Take care.

Funny Rebecca, I use these audios as well, nature sounds...but I usually just end of laying there most of the night... Hopefully, someone else will find them useful though!

TJ

yes... I have had sleeping troubles as well

I'm not sure how to stop it - I have learned that going to bed upset in any way is very bad... but that doesn't help me get any sleep

I have the same problem - depression with insomnia. I find that going to sleep at odd times and places during the day helps me. When I try to go to sleep at my normal bed time, in my bed, I can't do it. My brain is still going strong, thinking about my life and all the many things that are wrong with it. But, if I try to go to take a nap right after I get home from work on the couch in the living room, I can actually fall asleep much quicker and get better rest. I don't know why it works, but it does for me

Depression and insomnia do go hand in hand. I've had to use ambien for some time now...my body at night is so tired, but my mind seems to be wide awake....and I'm unable to relax. I've tried relaxation tapes, music, hot baths, but none seem to help. I do know if you want to try to taper off of the med, not all at once....but gradually...that might help you to sleep and not reley on ambien so much. Good luck