Restless nights and depression? Any advice?

Question

Restless nights and depression? Any advice?
I go to college and need to wake up at 6.30 am every weekday to get the bus, but I am always so tired because I can't go to sleep

I will go to bed at around 10.30 pm/ 11.00 pm and won't fall asleep until 12.00 am or even later and then I wake up throughout the night, mainly:

2.30am/ 3.00am, 4.00am, 5.00am and 6.00am

Over the past 2 weeks I have only been woken by my alarm once and it is really frustrating since I have 2 hour long exams so I need to be able to feel awake instead of tired all the time

However, during the weekend, I sleep fine and don't wake up until 10.30am, sometimes longer...

Why is this?

Also, I was reading a health section in a newspaper and the doctor said (the one who is always on GMTV) restless nights, particularly waking up regularly at 4.00am indicates depression. Why is that?

I know that I do feel a bit down but I am not sure it is depression...

Any help or advice?

Thank you for reading

Answer 1

Your sleep pattern during the week could be because you are subconsciously worried about waking up late so you keep waking up throughout the night to 'check' that you have not overslept if you get my meaning. Depression can cause sleep disruptions so it may be wise to see your gp with regards this just to be on the safe side. Anxiety and stress can also cause sleep problems and again your gp can discuss this with you, especially as long term raised levels of stress can cause depression along with other more serious medical conditions. I would advise you to try meditation on a regular basis just before bed and also other techniques such as a warm bath, warm milk, place some lavender oil on a tissue and put next to your bed, ensure your room is neither to warm or too cold etc.

I hope these suggestions help and hope you are back in a proper sleep routine soon.

Answer 2

Sounds to me like it's very possible. Since you said you feel bored, restless, and too tired all the time, it's probably taken quite a toll on your everyday life. It also sounds like anxiety, since you mentioned that you often worry and can't sleep because of it. Although you already expressed your apprehension about it, it'd probably be best to tell someone about what you're feeling. You've gone through a lot of very upsetting situations in which anybody would probably feel depressed for at least a short time. Is there anybody you'd feel comfortable opening up to? Your boyfriend? A close family member? I strongly suggest talking to a doctor if you feel your emotions are becoming over-bearing or too difficult to live with. It's very possible that you may be manic-depressive (especially since it runs in your family), but of course only a psychiatrist or licenced clinical psychologist can make the correct diagnosis. Do not be afraid to visit them. There are always other options to treatment besides drugs. Seeking help is the next step to feeling better. Best of wishes!

Answer 3

restless nights depression advice

Answer 4

You could also be stressed, try ruling that out first.

To TRY to eliminate anxiety, you can make of list of what you need to achieve today - and finish it, down to doing the washing up and putting your undies in the laundry sink to soak. Do it all. KNOW you've done it, and be ready for tomorrow with a new list of what needs to be done. It may help you sleep knowing you've completed everything.

Answer 5

get some sleep and cheer up