368: Behind the Sessions: Postponing Sleep: Time Alone or Anxiety?

Today’s episode covers a common problem I see with clients in therapy; it’s the issue of fighting sleep. People are exhausted, running on empty, and not getting the sleep they need. When the kids go to bed, there is an urge to stay awake and get things done or have alone time when your body is screaming for the sleep it needs. During the perinatal time, the loss of sleep is prevalent in many instances and impacts every area of life! Join me for more!  Show Highlights: Time for relaxation, decompression, and autonomy shouldn’t take priority over sleep. Is there avoidance going on? Avoidance of sleep can be related to trauma or PTSD. A cycle of repeatedly pushing sleep back leaves you frayed, irritable, anxious, and depressed. No judgment from me, but a gentle urging to take an honest look at your sleep challenges Look to compromise by guarding the nights you stay up to have alone time, but prioritize your sleep on other nights. Tips for promoting good sleep Resources: Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International, or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be a better support in offering services.  You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram, Facebook, and most other platforms Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! If you are a California resident looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, email me about openings for private pay clients!