sleeping issues

Collarspace Discussion Forums

Home Login Search

sleeping issues

View related threads: (in this forum | in all forums)

Logged in as: Guest

All Forums >> [Community Discussions] >> Health and Safety >> sleeping issues

Page: [1] 2 next > >>

Login

Message

<< Older Topic Newer Topic >>

sleeping issues - 5/13/2007 1:44:40 AM

leftofcenter

Posts: 31
Status: offline

I guess it would be silly to ask this of someone who doesnt work nights as I do, but does anyone have any tips for being in better control of your ability to sleep? I work 7pm-8am. This requires at least a good nap before my first shift, always requires a full day of sleep between days, and when I work off...there's always the debate..to sleep, or try to stay up.
If I could just stay on a nightshift schedule, stay up at night, sleep in the day, that might work...but that's impossible as the rest of the world is on a dayshift schedule...especially my children:)
Doesnt help that my mattress is terrible and I often wake up with my back killing me. Meds are not the answer, as I dont always have "eight hours to devote to sleep" as the commercials say..lol...so I end up with a sleeping pill hangover...or walking around in a fog.
I've tried calming tea, soft music, darkness, relaxing baths/showers, but I end up having the "get to sleep" problem or the "stay asleep" problem.

Post #: 1

RE: sleeping issues - 5/13/2007 1:54:16 AM

simmie

Posts: 3
Joined: 3/12/2005
Status: offline

When I worked a graveyard shift (9 pm to 7 am), I found it helped to get a solid block of sleep at the same time each day, even on my days off. I tried to sleep while everyone else was at work/school, so when the time when they were getting off work was when I was waking up. I was going to school then too, so that didn't always work.

I worked shift work for over ten years and I think it really messed up my body clock. It's been seven years since I've done shift work, and I still want to stay up all night.

I wish you luck!

(in reply to leftofcenter)

Post #: 2

RE: sleeping issues - 5/13/2007 6:12:24 AM

MsSonnetMarwood

Posts: 1898
Joined: 2/10/2005
From: Eastern Shore, Maryland
Status: offline

While I don't work overnights, my schedule is all over the place - up early to go to 8 am classes, working until 11 pm at night, etc, so I can sympathize about sleep getting messed up.

You definately want to do everything possible to have regular times when you sleep, and consider those times mandatory, even on your days off.

You also want to do everything possible to make your sleep time count.

If you can afford a new mattress,that's probably your first step.   I'd also suggest getting a good quality memory-foam mattress topper (about $100). I was having the same issue - waking up with my back aching - I got a foam topper because I just don't want to invest in a new mattress right now - what a world of difference! I also added a deep-pocket mattress pad and 450 count sheets which also helped with the overall comfort. I rarely wake up achy anymore.

You also want to block out as much light as possible - get good windowshades - and you also want to keep outside noise levels down. Sometimes those "white noise" machines are good for that. Consider your bedroom your sanctuary and do what it takes to make it feel that way for you, because you will not be able to function long term on interrupted sleep.

_____________________________

~Ms. Sonnet Marwood~

Deja Moo: The feeling you've heard this bull somewhere before.

(in reply to simmie)

Post #: 3

RE: sleeping issues - 5/13/2007 7:26:47 AM

daddysliloneds

Posts: 1351
Joined: 6/28/2006
Status: offline

this is when you will find that a public swimming pool is your friend...

get everyone off to work and school, then go to the public pool for some relaxing lap swimming, even if it means just using a kickboard and floating on your upper body, and fins to get you back and forth across the pool...

an hour of that, a good hot shower and you'll be more than ready to drop comfortably off to sleep...

you'll reap the rewards of good stretching, toning and relaxing all at the same time.

regarding the mattress and horrible back-aches, sometimes adding a piece of plywood between the matress and box spring helps to get the firmness that you need, and if that doesn't work, air beds are beautiful things for those who need a softer mattress at a low price.

(in reply to leftofcenter)

Post #: 4

RE: sleeping issues - 5/13/2007 10:24:49 AM

MiladyElaine

Posts: 1086
Joined: 10/10/2004
Status: offline

I sleep iin My bed and be guaranteed just one hour.
I sit in My armchair and get 4 to 5.
Drink milk before sleeping, it's Mother Nature's way and even Lassie knows that,

. Eating a piece of chicken will also do it.

_____________________________

A crazy quilt is warm but oddly put together.

Milady

(in reply to daddysliloneds)

Post #: 5

RE: sleeping issues - 5/13/2007 3:07:50 PM

LuckyAlbatross

Posts: 19224
Joined: 10/25/2005
Status: offline

I learned in college that it was always better for me to get SOME sleep rather than NO sleep.

For the mattress, try a memory foam mattress topper- not nearly as pricy or troublesome as getting a full new mattress but can completely change it over.

Since drugs won't be good since you can't get long regular stretches, try a white noise machine. I'm addicted to mine.

And, as much as possible, have a routine for your "getting ready to sleep" headspace. Train your body that when you go through this sequence of events, it means you are now ready and going to sleep well.

_____________________________

Find stable partners, not a stable of partners.

"Sometimes my whore logic gets all fuzzy"- Californication

(in reply to MiladyElaine)

Post #: 6

RE: sleeping issues - 5/13/2007 5:32:04 PM

givemyall

Posts: 620
Joined: 12/3/2005
Status: offline

Oooh I feel for you, I used to work nights and never managed to get into it at all - I think it was that desperate feeling of having to try and sleep when you know most people are getting up... I never found a cure, sorry to sound so negative and unhelpful. One nice thing I loved about it though was the drive home in the spring when no one was about - very refreshing!

The advice LA gave you about the mattress topper is great - you cant beat them for comfort.

For getting to sleep I use a trance that I downloaded onto my MP3 - its not meant to be a sleep hypnosis thing but it sure works for me and everyone else thats tried it... just go to this site and click on the download trance icon on the left http://www.paulmckenna.com/file/32/professional-training.html - sorry, dont know how to add links!

Hope you sort it out x

(in reply to leftofcenter)

Post #: 7

RE: sleeping issues - 5/13/2007 6:14:29 PM

Damocles809

Posts: 532
Joined: 7/12/2006
Status: offline

Naps never worked for me, it had to be one sleep session. Some deep breathing exercises for couple of minutes here and there during the day keep me awake much better than naps.

A white noise generators is invaluable, even if it's just a small fan. Milk really works, and stretching out before bed works too.

There's no way around a bad mattress. I hated the mattresses they gave me in college, and slept much much better on a little $80 memory foam mattress pad on the floor.

(in reply to givemyall)

Post #: 8

RE: sleeping issues - 5/14/2007 5:01:51 AM

HeavansKeeper

Posts: 1254
Joined: 5/14/2007
Status: offline

A suggestion for your mattress: Put wooden boards under it to give it a harder feel. You can also consider flipping it over if it's many years old.

How many nights a week do you work? 13 hour nights makes me assume 3-4 nights.

(in reply to Damocles809)

Post #: 9

RE: sleeping issues - 5/16/2007 8:51:40 AM

soultoshare

Posts: 519
Joined: 8/24/2006
Status: offline

My body clock has been set for the night shift since before I was born. Any day shift job and I are sworn enemies! My bedroom is for sleeping only!!!! well, play too, but i never have any problem sleeping after that. I bought white poster board and put it up on my bedroom window, i have a small fan for white noise, and to move air around, the a/c is NEVER off, i have to keep the room cold or I'll be miserable. Do what you can to get the mattress improved. Make your bedroom a comforting place to be....one thing that helps me sleep is the extra weight of another blanket......comfy, cozy type thing.

I live my midnight schedule. It's tough with kids, been there, done that, but try to stick to it as much as possible. Sleep while the kids are in school, as someone suggested. Midnights are hard on the body, switching back and forth to days on your days off aren't helping. Exercise before bedtime may help, but i find that if i do it then, i'm WIDE awake for hours! Same as if i were to take a hot shower, since I do that before I go to work. As far as eating, i don't.....heartburn is a bitch! As far as sleep aids, get the generic benedryl, or OTC sleeping pills...they are nothing more than an antihistamine. I can take like 100mg at a time, and i don't wake up feeling funky. I take them right before i leave work.....it works if you live less than 30 mins from your place of work, tho....any farther, you'll fall asleep behind the wheel. NOT a good thing!

good luck......i know not getting enough sleep sucks!

(in reply to HeavansKeeper)

Post #: 10

RE: sleeping issues - 5/16/2007 3:06:36 PM

swtnsparkling

Posts: 1738
Joined: 1/1/2004
Status: offline

quote:

A white noise generators is invaluable, even if it's just a small fan.

ABSOLUTELY!!! AGREE

I cannot sleep anymore with out one.

_____________________________

Never make anyone a priority who treats you as an option 2003

Walk in Peace

A "No" uttered from deepest conviction is better than a "Yes" uttered merely to please

(in reply to Damocles809)

Post #: 11

RE: sleeping issues - 5/18/2007 6:53:24 AM

twistedtight1

Posts: 24
Joined: 4/16/2005
Status: offline

greetings from a 3rd shift worker...i have a half hour travel time both to and from work..unwinding with public radio helps...soothing and classical music works...appreciating the beauty of the ride in the daylite ...getting home to get chores done, animals fed, and then the inviting open cover of the hot tub and a cup of Sleepy Time Tea...food in the stomach and a perhaps very satisfying orgasm with no "hafta talk" afterwords...smiles...always twist

(in reply to swtnsparkling)

Post #: 12

RE: sleeping issues - 5/19/2007 11:29:16 PM

Kitte9

Posts: 411
Joined: 11/26/2006
Status: offline

quote:

For the mattress, try a memory foam mattress topper- not nearly as pricy or troublesome as getting a full new mattress but can completely change it over.

They can be a bit expensive, but they are worth it.

_____________________________

I am stronger than yesterday

(in reply to LuckyAlbatross)

Post #: 13

RE: sleeping issues - 5/20/2007 9:43:04 AM

MsSonnetMarwood

Posts: 1898
Joined: 2/10/2005
From: Eastern Shore, Maryland
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: Kitte9

quote:

For the mattress, try a memory foam mattress topper- not nearly as pricy or troublesome as getting a full new mattress but can completely change it over.

They can be a bit expensive, but they are worth it.

I got mine at an outlet store for $80, which is a bargain considering how much more comfortable it made my bed.

_____________________________

~Ms. Sonnet Marwood~

Deja Moo: The feeling you've heard this bull somewhere before.

(in reply to Kitte9)

Post #: 14

RE: sleeping issues - 5/20/2007 2:49:23 PM

JpnsTigerrrlily

Posts: 161
Joined: 8/13/2006
Status: offline

I agree, new mattress or some cheaper/quick fix alternatives for now. But when I worked nights I blocked out all windows using blankets. The room was PITCH BLACK. I also unplugged the phones, and had the room very cool with a small fan to circulate air. For some reason if the room is really cool or cold and I have the weight of a lot of blankets on top of me, I fall asleep quicker and sleep deeper. (Summers are always an issue for me) I played mellow music on the drive home before hand and would also either take a really hot shower or do some slow long stretches before climbing into bed. Hope this helps.

(in reply to MsSonnetMarwood)

Post #: 15

RE: sleeping issues - 5/20/2007 3:59:31 PM

grlneedstolearn

Posts: 728
Joined: 1/29/2007
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: leftofcenter

I guess it would be silly to ask this of someone who doesnt work nights as I do, but does anyone have any tips for being in better control of your ability to sleep? I work 7pm-8am. This requires at least a good nap before my first shift, always requires a full day of sleep between days, and when I work off...there's always the debate..to sleep, or try to stay up.
If I could just stay on a nightshift schedule, stay up at night, sleep in the day, that might work...but that's impossible as the rest of the world is on a dayshift schedule...especially my children:)
Doesnt help that my mattress is terrible and I often wake up with my back killing me. Meds are not the answer, as I dont always have "eight hours to devote to sleep" as the commercials say..lol...so I end up with a sleeping pill hangover...or walking around in a fog.
I've tried calming tea, soft music, darkness, relaxing baths/showers, but I end up having the "get to sleep" problem or the "stay asleep" problem.

i used to work nights, and now i'm on days

. But i used to work 5pm-5am and trying to figure in the sleep. As soon as i got home i went to bed, woke up around 12 or 1, did some errands if i could and went to work. i enjoyed it and if i could just get my body to shut down i'd be ok. i would never recomment staying up until your next shift, did that a couple times with OT and it screwed me up. My body could not tell whether or not i was going to work or trying to shut it down. Hopefully this helps some.

(in reply to leftofcenter)

Post #: 16

RE: sleeping issues - 5/20/2007 9:07:56 PM

Llyren

Posts: 637
Joined: 3/5/2007
From: Illinois
Status: offline

I work overnights, and I have trouble falling asleep in general. I try to keep the room as cool as possible, and I just use a light cloth over my eyes to block the light. One thing I've found useful is that I put on an audio book about half an hour before bed, and listen to it as I'm falling asleep. I put on the same one "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone", read by Stephen Fry, and it's started to put me in a relaxed and sleepy mood just by starting to listen to it. If you can relate bed to a certain sound, it might help.

_____________________________

I'm not perving. I'm compensating for my myopia. So nyah.

Member of Cock-Suckers for World Peace

"Character is what you are in the dark."

- Lord John Whorfin

(in reply to grlneedstolearn)

Post #: 17

RE: sleeping issues - 5/20/2007 9:20:33 PM

LadyPact

Posts: 32566
Status: offline

I'm in the same boat as you. My work schedule consists of compressed (12 hour) shifts that rotate back and forth between nights and days. In other words, one week I'll work Mon - Thurs 7 am - 7 pm, and the next it's the same, but 7 pm - 7 am. It wreaks havoc on the inner clock and can really mess up a good sleep pattern.

One of the things I did to help the problem was to black out My windows in My bedroom with poster board. I am very light sensative, so that helped in a big way. Don't forget to do your bathroom, too, if you have a skylight in it like Mine. It sounds silly, but get a nightlight in there for the times you have to get up to go while sleeping, instead of turning on the light. Eliminating the light can help a lot. There have been many studies done about the effects of the sunlight on sleeping schedules. (For the interested, less hours of sunlight in the winter months also increases depression in some people.)

(in reply to Llyren)

Post #: 18

RE: sleeping issues - 5/20/2007 10:39:29 PM

adoracat

Posts: 1779
Joined: 2/16/2007
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: Kitte9

quote:

For the mattress, try a memory foam mattress topper- not nearly as pricy or troublesome as getting a full new mattress but can completely change it over.

They can be a bit expensive, but they are worth it.

overstock dot com

i got a three inch memory foam topper for a king sized bed for $129.00. and two dollar shipping. ABSOLUTELY worth every penny.

kitten, who has fibromyalgia and cannot get comfortable easily

(in reply to Kitte9)

Post #: 19

RE: sleeping issues - 5/21/2007 3:28:21 AM

pinksugarsub

Posts: 1224
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: leftofcenter

I guess it would be silly to ask this of someone who doesnt work nights as I do, but does anyone have any tips for being in better control of your ability to sleep? I work 7pm-8am. This requires at least a good nap before my first shift, always requires a full day of sleep between days, and when I work off...there's always the debate..to sleep, or try to stay up.
If I could just stay on a nightshift schedule, stay up at night, sleep in the day, that might work...but that's impossible as the rest of the world is on a dayshift schedule...especially my children:)
Doesnt help that my mattress is terrible and I often wake up with my back killing me. Meds are not the answer, as I dont always have "eight hours to devote to sleep" as the commercials say..lol...so I end up with a sleeping pill hangover...or walking around in a fog.
I've tried calming tea, soft music, darkness, relaxing baths/showers, but I end up having the "get to sleep" problem or the "stay asleep" problem.

i'm sorry yr going through this. Would it be possible to work days? Sleep deprivation is very harmful to the overall health of the sufferer. If you cannot change your shift, then possibly you could afford some day care in the morning or afternoon to allow you to get 8 hours' uninterrupted sleep?

My sleep problems are fairly severe. i have seen a sleep MD and will have a study done early in June, when i assume he will give me a final diagnosis. However, i am already being treated for narcolepsy, restless leg syndrome and apena.

He tells me i can look forward to relief, that there is hope, and i am encouraged by this. As i write this i have had about 4 hours' sleep and this bout of insomnia has lasted about 2 weeks. i scarcely feel human.

_____________________________

(in reply to leftofcenter)

Post #: 20

Page: [1] 2 next > >>

All Forums >> [Community Discussions] >> Health and Safety >> sleeping issues

Page: [1] 2 next > >>

Jump to:

New Messages	No New Messages
Hot Topic w/ New Messages	Hot Topic w/o New Messages
Locked w/ New Messages	Locked w/o New Messages

Post New Thread

Reply to Message

Post New Poll

Submit Vote

Delete My Own Post

Delete My Own Thread

Rate Posts

Collarchat.com © 2025

Terms of Service

0.093