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Insomnia, startled awake in the middle of the night, extremely afraid, unable to alleviate tension?

sleeplessness nightmares mental illness trauma paranoia
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Insomnia, startled awake in the middle of the night, extremely afraid, unable to alleviate tension? By Anonymous | Published on December 18, 2024

I don't know if it's because I watched a whole day of commentary on horror games during the day (I wasn't scared when watching the videos, and sometimes I was even excited),

Insomnia at night is not a new thing. Today, as usual, I couldn't fall asleep even after listening to an old song before going to bed. In the middle of the night, I was startled by the thunder because of the bad weather. After calming down, I became excited again. Later, I took off the headphones and seemed to fall asleep. I remember that when I was conscious, I looked at my phone and it was 2 o'clock.

Before going to bed, I have a lot of things on my mind, and after sorting them out, I go to sleep. Halfway through the night, I suddenly feel something pounce on me, and I hear a horrible sound that sounds like someone or a sheep is screaming. I wake up very scared (I feel like I only screamed once). After I fully wake up, I'm still scared (I usually suspect that someone is spying on me, so I'm even more scared at this time). There's always a sound in my right ear, like Buddhist songs or music or the buzzing of mosquitoes that just won't stop. Is it tinnitus? It's 4:30 a.m., and although I'm very sleepy now, I'm afraid to go back to sleep for fear of experiencing this again. My head hurts, and I can't sleep.

Usually I'm stressed, but I often have nightmares, and it's not the first time I've screamed in my sleep and woke up. This time, however, it felt really strange. In the past, when I screamed in my sleep (about once or twice a year), I would have had a nightmare, and it was a bad one. You can imagine the content (either being chased by a so-called ghost or being in danger myself, or something happening to someone close to me that scared me, such as being strangled by someone in my class, jumping off a building, etc.). I would remember the content of the nightmare after I woke up.

But this time was different. This time I wasn't dreaming. I should say I was sleeping very lightly. I just thought I was about to fall asleep when I clearly felt the sensations described in the previous paragraph. I was very scared and finally woke up screaming.

I have a mild mental illness (state or mild degree) and have not taken any medication for most of the year. Recently, my physical and mental state has been getting worse and worse. I have no motivation or energy during the day, but I eat, drink, and defecate normally. I just feel like I can't get enough sleep no matter how much I sleep. At night, I'm afraid of this and that, my heart keeps pounding like I'm going to die suddenly, I can't sleep... Am I too superstitious? Or am I crazy? Is there no cure (laugh and cry)?

Other explanations can be understood as experiences and traumas: having strange habits (which have improved), being bullied at school, living alone after my parents divorced, and having a falling out with my neighbor that has lasted for years (this is my biggest recent source of distress). Ever since I felt excited today after watching a horror video, it is hard not to suspect that my state of mind is gradually becoming pathological. I have also recently always thought that I have a paranoid delusion or schizophrenia, worrying that my neighbors are listening and watching, whether they are talking or really cursing about something. It seems that everything is related to me, and I can even talk to myself for up to an hour in order to release pressure or protect myself from the "voices". Anyway, I live in a particularly stressful and exhausting way, and no matter how I try to relieve it, I can't. There is no one around who understands me.

I have no choice. The college entrance exam is approaching (currently on a leave of absence or studying at home), and I must endure this "pain" and persevere.

Edward Kenneth Davis Edward Kenneth Davis A total of 2612 people have been helped

There are numerous methods to alleviate this situation. Primarily, one should organize the room. A disorderly room has been proven to negatively impact sleep. Therefore, it is essential to tidy up the room and eliminate any items that may disrupt sleep. The room should be kept neat and orderly. Additionally, opening windows and doors frequently is crucial to maintain ventilation and prevent moisture accumulation. A room with unobstructed airflow and no strange odors can help relieve stress and improve sleep quality.

Secondly, it is recommended that the individual pursue active treatment. It is unclear from the original poster's account whether the individual is currently taking any medication. If the individual is taking medication for schizophrenia, it is advised that they continue taking it. Additionally, the individual should consult with a medical professional to determine if traditional Chinese medicine could be beneficial in regulating their physical condition. If this is the case, the individual can utilize traditional Chinese medicine to regulate their body and improve sleep.

Thirdly, it is recommended to increase the frequency of moderate outdoor activities and exercise. It is also advised to spend time outside in the sun regularly and to avoid remaining indoors alone for extended periods. When one is alone, it is easy to engage in unproductive thoughts, which can lead to psychological distress and mental fatigue. Engaging in outdoor activities, such as sunbathing and exercise, can help to expel the cold dampness in the body, increase yang energy, enhance immunity, reduce stress, and promote sleep.

It is recommended that individuals who are exposed to sunlight during this season utilize protective measures such as sun hats to prevent sunburn and subsequent facial peeling.

Fourth, it is important to accept the current situation. Given the inability to extricate oneself from the current predicament, it is advisable to initially remain in this state and undertake some of the aforementioned actions. Initially, this may prove challenging, but it is crucial to persevere. Ultimately, a sense of pleasure and comfort will emerge.

It should be noted that the aforementioned suggestions are not mandatory. There are alternative approaches that could be considered, but it is crucial to avoid prolonged periods of solitude within the confines of the domicile, engaged in the use of electronic devices. While this may offer a transient sense of ease, it is ultimately an ineffective strategy for stress management and sleep promotion. The aforementioned recommendations are presented for the questioner's consideration and are based on the author's personal insights and experiences.

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Seth Seth A total of 2474 people have been helped

Dear Question Owner, It is understandable that you find it challenging to view your description objectively. The feelings you are experiencing are quite intense and may be difficult to contextualize. Hallucinations and auditory hallucinations can be interpreted as a form of inner child communication. It's important to recognize that many individuals may have similar feelings, but they may have developed coping mechanisms to differentiate or accept these feelings.

From your account, it appears that you have been experiencing a range of intense emotions, including feelings of being attacked, pursued by unseen forces, and even contemplating self-harm. These feelings seem to stem from a deep-seated need for care and nurturing during your formative years, which was not adequately met. The fact that you lived alone during your parents' divorce may have further exacerbated this need, leaving you to fend for yourself in navigating the challenges of childhood. It's evident that you've been grappling with a complex inner landscape, shaped by a perceived lack of love, care, attention, and support. This has led to a painful reaction that you've been trying to cope with on your own. If we consider that your discomfort is rooted in a deep-seated feeling of being uncared for in interpersonal relationships and by your inner parents or nurturers, it's clear that you've been relying on your thoughts to navigate your emotional state.

It is important to recognize that relationships can be complex and challenging to navigate. The fantasies and auditory hallucinations that arise from a sense of emptiness can be seen as a way of returning to oneself, but this can also manifest as a difficulty in accepting one's own pain. Similarly, in an academic setting, these patterns can manifest as difficulties in relationships with classmates and teachers. Poor academic performance can lead to feelings of discrimination, while interactions with neighbors can trigger feelings of hatred. It is essential to understand that these experiences are part of the growth process and are not uncommon. The pain of attacking or feeling attacked by others is often a manifestation of a deep need for love and acceptance. Seeking guidance from a counselor can be a valuable step in this process. A counselor can provide support, understanding, and care, helping you to navigate these challenges and gain a deeper understanding of your feelings. I hope that you are doing well and that you find the support you need to thrive.

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Katherine Elizabeth Shaw Katherine Elizabeth Shaw A total of 131 people have been helped

Hello, host. Thanks for the question. As the info says, I've been having trouble sleeping for a few days now. Today was pretty typical. I listened to music for a while before bed. The thunder scared me a bit because of the bad weather. I got excited, took off my headphones, and eventually fell asleep.

One night, I was suddenly woken up by the sensation of something jumping on me. I heard a scream that sounded like a person or a goat, and it scared me so much that I screamed along with it.

The bait also includes sounds like Buddhist songs and mosquito chirping that sound like tinnitus.

Even though I was really tired, I was afraid to go to sleep because I thought I'd have another bad dream. My head hurt, I couldn't sleep, and I usually ended up jumping out of bed. I woke up from nightmares in the middle of the night, not just once or twice, but this time it seemed really strange. It felt like I wasn't dreaming, and I slept very lightly. Whenever I felt like I was about to fall asleep, I could clearly perceive the feelings described above.

I want to be afraid and wake up screaming in the end.

From what you've said, it seems like you're really aware of what's going on around you and don't want to let your mind wander. You've also shared some memories from your childhood, which I think is helpful.

It also shows that the environment you grew up in wasn't very secure. It makes it hard for you to control your narcissism and your surroundings.

Xiaoping is daytime. You also like to listen to some commentary on horror games. So you'll probably have nightmares when you go to sleep at night and have delusions of persecution about your neighbors.

For a few seconds, he described the situation of talking to himself for an hour. Apart from the function of communicating information, people also have the function of releasing their inner pressure. Thinking about the rain is a kind of psychological treatment that is not easy to detect.

I'd like to start seeing another part of myself as an important part of my life. I'd like to accept and embrace my own stress and negative emotions. If you think this method is effective, you can try to extend the time you talk to yourself to relieve your inner pressure.

You're on break from school to prepare for the college entrance exam. In addition to exam prep, it's good to get some exercise. It releases hormones that can affect your heart. Staying home all day can make you daydream. When you go out, you're surrounded by nature. It's the perfect time of year with flowers blooming, willows greening, grass growing, and birds singing. The exuberance of nature will refresh you and make you feel enlightened. I'm happy to have an appointment with you. 1983. The world and I love you!

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Addison Hall Addison Hall A total of 900 people have been helped

Hello, my dear friend. I can feel from your description that you are currently in a state of deep anxiety and nervousness. This state of mind has seriously affected your life, and I'm here to help.

Dear, you are actually very brave! It's so hard to get out of this emotional quagmire, isn't it? So many people get stuck in it and end up doing things they regret. But you've been able to persevere and work hard for the college entrance exam!

I truly believe that your willpower will help you get through this tough time.

First, let's take a look at why you're in this situation.

I'm so sorry to say that watching horror games is the direct cause. Even though you didn't feel scared when watching the video, the terrifying images have been imprinted on your brain and entered your subconscious.

I know you're going through a lot right now, and I'm here to support you. It's important to understand that the seed of fear has already been planted in your mind. When you're awake, it doesn't pop up. But when you're sleeping, the subconscious mind is active, and the emotions of fear and dread will jump out and even become dominant, making you experience the feeling of fear even more deeply.

So, my dear friend, I really think you should stay away from these kinds of videos.

I can see from what you've told me that things aren't going well for you at the moment.

The college entrance exam is just around the corner, and I know you're feeling the pressure. This is a tough time for anyone, but it's especially important for you to have care and company, as well as sufficient psychological and emotional support. And because you're living alone after your parents' divorce, you're facing a lot on your own.

It's clear you're aiming high for the college entrance exam, but it's tough when you're studying solo due to health issues. It's a tricky spot, wanting to do your best but not having the ideal learning setup. I can imagine it's making you feel pretty stressed.

On top of that, if you don't have a good relationship with your neighbors, it'll be even harder to get the emotional support you need. That's probably why you get so excited when you watch horror videos! When you don't have any inner emotions, you tend to look for strong external stimuli to feel something.

It seems like the root cause is some issues in your family of origin. From what you've told me, it seems like your family wasn't as harmonious as it could have been.

Your parents' divorce has had a big impact on you, and their relationship hasn't always been as happy as it could be, with lots of arguments and disagreements. This has made it tricky for you to get the love and support you deserve at home, and it might even make you feel scared.

On the other hand, it seems like you've been going through a lot. It's possible that your parents don't know about the schoolyard bullying you've been facing, or that they haven't been able to help you with it. It's so hard when you don't feel safe and you're afraid of what's going on around you. I'm here to help.

It's okay to say that unhealthy behaviors are actually a way for you to satisfy yourself and vent your emotions.

So, how can we make things a little easier for you right now? I really hope these suggestions will help!

First, it's really important to seek professional help and support. Your current situation is quite challenging to recover from on your own, and if you don't make some timely adjustments, it could become more serious.

I really think you should look into getting some professional psychological help. I'm sure psychological counseling would be a great way to start.

Second, try to slow down your pace of life. You're under a lot of pressure right now, and you're putting a lot of pressure on yourself.

It's totally okay to slow down the pace a bit! This will help you be more efficient and feel better overall. You're currently in a self-study situation, so you have the power to control your own progress.

It's springtime! Time to enjoy the beauty of nature and relax!

Third, don't forget to look for psychological support in your environment. I'm sure there are people among your family and friends who understand and care about you.

You can talk to them about your worries. They're there for you, just to listen and give you a shoulder to lean on for a while. It's okay to let off some steam.

Fourth, make some nice, healthy changes to your lifestyle. For example, you could try increasing your level of exercise.

Moderate exercise is a great way to stimulate the production of endorphins, which can regulate emotions. It can also help to adjust the body's mechanisms and play a relaxing role.

Fifth, it's really important to have a good understanding of yourself and to be kind to yourself. As the college entrance exam gets closer, it's good to think about what you want and need.

Set yourself some achievable goals, so that you don't feel overwhelmed. And remember, there are so many ways to live your life! There's always a way that suits you. And remember, your health and happiness are the most important things!

I really hope these suggestions are helpful for you. I wish you an early escape from your current state so that you can embrace life and enjoy it!

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Oscar Rodriguez Oscar Rodriguez A total of 3990 people have been helped

You've had a rough time recently. You're carrying a lot on your shoulders, and it's weighing you down. Let's talk about it.

Strange feelings at night, including "bed-jumping" and hearing voices, are actually quite common, especially when you are under a lot of stress or have poor sleep quality. The human brain is a remarkable phenomenon. It often manifests everyday emotions such as anxiety and fear in dreams or when half asleep, making it challenging to distinguish between reality and dreams.

This does not make you superstitious or crazy. It is not hopeless. It is simply a way for the brain to self-regulate, and it may be reminding you that you need to pay more attention to your mental health.

Insomnia is like a naughty child. Don't try to get rid of it, relax, and help your body and mind enter a state of rest.

You need to do more outdoor activities during the day to let natural light help you adjust your biological clock. At night, you must avoid stimulating recreational activities as much as possible, such as watching those horror game commentaries. You may feel excited at the time, but it will affect the quality of your sleep.

It is crucial to understand that a minor mental illness and a long period without medication can have serious consequences. Medication is a vital stabilizing force for the mind, enabling individuals to better manage their emotions and stress.

You should contact a professional doctor to see if you need to restart your medication. At the same time, you should also combine psychological counseling.

Everyone has experienced setbacks in their lives, big and small. These experiences have shaped us and taught us valuable lessons. You have been courageous to face your challenges alone, but remember that seeking help is not a sign of weakness. It is an opportunity to empower yourself and allow others to support you in navigating these challenges.

You need to get these paranoia or schizophrenia concerns assessed by professionals, not self-labelled. Our thinking is easily led by emotions, but I can assure you that through scientific methods, many problems can be alleviated.

The college entrance exam is an important milestone, but your health should always come first. Give yourself some breathing room and don't be too hard on yourself.

You are already trying hard. Being "strong" doesn't mean holding on with gritted teeth. It means knowing when to rest and take care of yourself. I know you can find a way to emerge from this dark period and welcome brighter days.

You've got this! Stay strong!

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Mason Mason A total of 4614 people have been helped

Hello, question asker. I am the Heart Detective coach, Gu Daoxi Feng Shou Lu.

After reading the questioner's description, I thought of the phrase "terrifying when you think about it." Emotions cannot withstand repeated review, and the more we think about them, the more frightened we become. When I was a child, I also had these moments of particular fear. During the day, I would watch horror images, and then I would daydream, which could lead to nightmares and fear for a week. Later, when I grew up, I never watched similar images again!

The questioner should ask themselves whether they had frequent nightmares before watching horror game commentary. If they did not, it is likely that watching game commentary recently is the cause. Although game commentary can release dopamine while we are watching, making us feel happy, it is easier to induce emotional reactions that make us feel more and more afraid when we think back, causing the body to release more adrenaline and increase our emotional stress. The questioner should try to understand the factors that influence their emotions and avoid things that are highly stimulating to calm down.

I read an article that reminded us not to look at our phones when we have insomnia. The more we look at them, the less sleep we get. The questioner should try not looking at their phone and reading instead to help them sleep next time they have insomnia.

If we suspect that we are ill, for example if we have paranoid delusions or schizophrenia, self-doubt will make our psychological effects worse. This can cause us to become depressed. In this situation, we should seek help from a professional psychologist to diagnose us and develop a treatment plan.

I'll tell you a story about myself. When I first got sick with the coronavirus, I was really sick. I stayed home for three days, but then I went to the hospital anyway. I took all my stuff with me and got ready for my hospital stay. But I ended up waiting in line for seven hours in the cold. The doctor didn't even give me any medicine, saying I was fine. But after I left, I felt better. Looking for proof can help the questioner feel better.

The perpetrators always pay attention to the motives. The questioner must think about what is worth risking the neighbor breaking the law for harming the questioner. There is a cost to committing a crime. The questioner must identify the specific conflict between him and the neighbor.

Avoiding a victim mentality will make you feel more secure.

The college entrance exam is stressful, but you can handle it. Your grades will predict the direction of the exam. Assess what kind of college your current grades are suitable for. Have certainty within to relieve the pressure.

A bad daytime state is related to rest. If the questioner can't adjust their rest and sleep for a short period of time, they should look at the period when they were in the best learning state and reverse the time for rest and sleep. This is a short-term way to transition.

Keeping an emotional diary is an effective way to release stress and anxiety. It also helps you understand your emotions and reconcile with them, which improves your overall well-being and sense of self.

A gratitude journal is an effective tool for shifting focus from negative to positive emotions. Affirmations such as "I learned today," "I was aware today," etc. are powerful ways to reinforce positive self-beliefs.

Read "Burns' New Emotion Therapy."

Best wishes!

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Comments

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Matteo Thomas Failure is the price we pay for learning, and success is the dividend we earn from it.

I can totally relate to how unsettling and scary that experience must have been for you. It sounds like a mix of insomnia, vivid nightmares, and anxiety all rolled into one night. Maybe it's time to consider talking to a professional who can help you sort through these feelings and sensations you're having. They might offer some strategies to manage the stress and improve your sleep.

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Siena Atwood A teacher's love for students is a warm embrace that makes learning a pleasant experience.

It's really tough when your mind plays tricks on you like that, especially with no relief in sight. I wonder if finding a support group or someone who understands what you're going through could help ease your fears. Sometimes just sharing what you're experiencing with others can make a big difference. Have you considered seeking out a community that deals with similar issues?

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Willow Lewis A well - versed person in multiple areas is a translator of knowledge, making it understandable across different contexts.

The combination of stress and lack of sleep can really mess with your head. It seems like you're under a lot of pressure, and it's affecting your mental health. Perhaps taking small steps towards selfcare, even something as simple as a short walk or a relaxing bath before bed, could help calm your mind. It might also be beneficial to establish a more structured routine to signal to your body that it's time to wind down.

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Hersey Davis Life is a voyage of self - realization.

That sounds incredibly overwhelming, and I'm sorry you're going through this. It's understandable to feel scared and unsure, but remember, you're not alone. There are resources and professionals out there who specialize in helping people with similar experiences. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Have you thought about speaking to a counselor or therapist who can provide guidance?

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Reed Miller Growth is a journey of learning to see the growth that comes from being more patient with ourselves and others.

What you described sounds terrifying, and I admire your courage for sharing such a personal experience. It's important to take your mental health seriously, especially given the symptoms you've mentioned. Maybe it would be helpful to explore relaxation techniques or mindfulness practices that could help you feel more grounded. Also, addressing any underlying anxieties might lessen the intensity of your nighttime experiences.

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