Yeah, story helps me. I listen to audiobooks. I set a timer so I don't miss too much if I fall asleep.
January 27
How can you manage racing thoughts and an inability to shut off your mind at bedtime when dealing with depression?
Racing thoughts at bedtime can be incredibly frustrating when you're living with depression. The good news is there are several strategies that can help calm your mind and improve your sleep.
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How can you manage racing thoughts and an inability to shut off your mind at bedtime when dealing with depression?
Racing thoughts at bedtime can be incredibly frustrating when you're living with depression. The good news is there are several strategies that can help calm your mind and improve your sleep.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be particularly effective for managing racing thoughts at bedtime. It focuses on calming racing thoughts and changing habits that interfere with rest, making it easier to fall and stay asleep. The benefit is that CBT won't interfere with other treatments you might already be using, and you can learn strategies to use for life.
Here are some practical bedtime strategies to try:
- Listen to or read a bedtime story - Many people find this helps them fall asleep before the story even ends
- Avoid screens before bed - The bright light from phones and computers can make it harder to sleep
- Stick to a consistent bedtime routine - Going to bed around the same time each night helps regulate your sleep-wake cycles
- Limit naps to 20-30 minutes if needed - Longer naps can make nighttime sleep harder
A MyDepressionTeam member shared: "When I'm having trouble sleeping, I listen to a sleep story when lying in bed. I mostly fall asleep before the story ends."
If racing thoughts and sleep problems persist despite trying these strategies, talk with your mental health provider about additional options that might help.
January 22
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