Feeling anxious and restless...

Jerry Martinez5 said:Yeah, when you're high-strung, suddenly everyone around you gets 🙂

But you actually gave me an idea for a new thread: How the recession is cranking up everyone's anxiety levels

Specifically, how the economic downturn is fueling all these mental health issues. It feels like even the most level-headed people are starting to get anxious

Exactly that. I was thinking the same thing, I guess. 😉 I wouldn't say I'm imagining things, I guess. Just noticing. 😛

I suppose I should begin by saying that things are looking quite bright today... almost too bright, if you catch my drift. It’s one of those mornings where everything feels possible, provided you have enough caffeine and perhaps a bit of luck on your side. I was thinking earlier about how much can change in just twenty-four hours. One moment you're staring at a blank screen, and the next... well, you know how it goes. Anyway, I am feeling rather optimistic about our current trajectory. Let us hope this momentum carries us through the week... kaže:
Just mentioning that "extreme restlessness" in a diagnosis linked to insomnia... it leads one to assume that serotonin levels are already running too high. In such a scenario, prescribing SSRI antidepressants or even suggesting intense exercise could actually be counterproductive. It’s a nuance where younger specialists frequently lose their way...

One characteristic of depression is also... Mood swings... they can be quite a fickle thing, can't they? One moment you feel like you're walking on sunshine, and the next, everything just feels heavy... almost overwhelming. It’s a strange cycle to navigate through daily life.It all stems from that deep sense of helplessness... the sadness, the constant weeping, and that crushing lack of self-esteem and confidence. Then there's the guilt, the feeling of being utterly worthless, the total apathy, the memory lapses, and those struggles with cognitive processing...
After several months, these behaviors can gradually morph into persistent restlessness, irritability, and even sudden outbursts of rage...
r.

I have a few questions:
Are you a doctor? Because what you're saying sounds remarkably coherent...🙂?

I can certainly see myself in quite a bit of what was mentioned above. It’s pretty clear that I’m dealing with depression that has morphed into constant restlessness, irritability, and these sudden outbursts of rage. And honestly, the insomnia just drags everything else down with it. If I’m being truthful, I blame my sleep deprivation for my worst moods... because when I actually get enough rest, I am a wonderful, peaceful person. Take today, for instance. But when I go days without sleeping? Well, it’s only natural that I become an absolute wreck. I'm just exhausted, my nerves are shot, and everything feels like it's hanging by a single, fraying thread...

Regarding that restlessness... I don't even start feeling it until late evening, once I know it's actually time to turn in for the night. I suspect the agitation stems from those nagging expectations—that mental loop of "am I going to be able to sleep tonight or not?" It doesn't feel like a state of hyperactivity, per se... just a quiet sort of tension.
Does anyone happen to know a doctor who might be able to assist me? A private message would also be perfectly acceptable...

I make it a point to get some exercise twice a week during the afternoon hours, and I must say, the post-workout glow is absolutely wonderful... Occasionally, I’ll squeeze in some extra movement on the side—perhaps a few laps at the local YMCA or perhaps using a piece of equipment I have at home—but I am careful not to overdo it. I try to maintain a very balanced approach to physical activity. Most of the time, though, my ability to get around depends entirely on whether I have my car available...😁

How much does sitting at a computer for more than ten hours a day actually contribute to insomnia?

Thanks...🙂

Larry Cruz51 said:

I suppose I should begin by saying that things are looking quite bright today... almost too bright, if you catch my drift. It’s one of those mornings where everything feels possible, provided you have enough caffeine and perhaps a bit of luck on your side. I was thinking earlier about how much can change in just twenty-four hours. One moment you're staring at a blank screen, and the next... well, you know how it goes. Anyway, I am feeling rather optimistic about our current trajectory. Let us hope this momentum carries us through the week... kaže:
Just mentioning that "extreme restlessness" in a diagnosis linked to insomnia... it leads one to assume that serotonin levels are already running too high. In such a scenario, prescribing SSRI antidepressants or even suggesting intense exercise could actually be counterproductive. It’s a nuance where younger specialists frequently lose their way...

One characteristic of depression is also... Mood swings... they can be quite a fickle thing, can't they? One moment you feel like you're walking on sunshine, and the next, everything just feels heavy... almost overwhelming. It’s a strange cycle to navigate through daily life.It all stems from that deep sense of helplessness... the sadness, the constant weeping, and that crushing lack of self-esteem and confidence. Then there's the guilt, the feeling of being utterly worthless, the total apathy, the memory lapses, and those struggles with cognitive processing...
After several months, these behaviors can gradually morph into persistent restlessness, irritability, and even sudden outbursts of rage...
r.

I have a few questions:
Are you a doctor? Because what you're saying sounds remarkably coherent...🙂?

I can certainly see myself in quite a bit of what was mentioned above. It’s pretty clear that I’m dealing with depression that has morphed into constant restlessness, irritability, and these sudden outbursts of rage. And honestly, the insomnia just drags everything else down with it. If I’m being truthful, I blame my sleep deprivation for my worst moods... because when I actually get enough rest, I am a wonderful, peaceful person. Take today, for instance. But when I go days without sleeping? Well, it’s only natural that I become an absolute wreck. I'm just exhausted, my nerves are shot, and everything feels like it's hanging by a single, fraying thread...

Regarding that restlessness... I don't even start feeling it until late evening, once I know it's actually time to turn in for the night. I suspect the agitation stems from those nagging expectations—that mental loop of "am I going to be able to sleep tonight or not?" It doesn't feel like a state of hyperactivity, per se... just a quiet sort of tension.
Does anyone happen to know a doctor who might be able to assist me? A private message would also be perfectly acceptable...

I make it a point to get some exercise twice a week during the afternoon hours, and I must say, the post-workout glow is absolutely wonderful... Occasionally, I’ll squeeze in some extra movement on the side—perhaps a few laps at the local YMCA or perhaps using a piece of equipment I have at home—but I am careful not to overdo it. I try to maintain a very balanced approach to physical activity. Most of the time, though, my ability to get around depends entirely on whether I have my car available...😁

How much does sitting at a computer for more than ten hours a day actually contribute to insomnia?

Thanks...🙂

And even if I were, I wouldn't tell you (that’s what one of my buddies always says) 😁

Just imagine if you went onto a psychology subforum and publicly announced you were a therapist or something🤣.

You wouldn't be able to sleep for weeks because of all the private messages you'd get flooding in.😁

Quincy:

Regarding that restlessness... I don't even start feeling it until late at night, right when I know I should be winding down for bed. I guess that restlessness comes from the pressure of wondering, "Am I actually going to fall asleep tonight or not?"

You hit the nail on the head there. You're basically stressing yourself out over nothing.
My advice? Stop hanging out on these forums after 10 PM.😉

Quincy:

Do you know any doctors who might be able to help me (even via DM)?

Honestly, most doctors could probably help, and from what I can see, you don't seem to have anything super serious going on. 🤷

Quincy:

c)I work out twice a week in the afternoons and feel great afterward. Occasionally I'll do some extra stuff too—like swimming or using some equipment at home—but I don't overdo the exercise. Mostly, though, it just depends on whether I have my car available.😁

That sounds good; exercise is helpful, you just shouldn't go overboard.
If you're struggling to sleep, though, maybe try avoiding those afternoon workouts.

Quincy:

d)How much does sitting at a computer for more than 10 hours a day contribute to insomnia?

It’s the exact same deal as overexerting yourself in the afternoons.

If that's part of your job, then make sure you stretch every 15 minutes or take a quick walk around the office—or wherever you are. But if you're just wasting time scrolling through forums...😁 well, you're going to have to cut back on that addiction yourself, because at that point, nobody can help you but you.

crimsonhound80 said:And even if I were, I wouldn't tell you (that’s what one of my buddies always says) 😁

Just imagine if you went onto a psychology subforum and publicly announced you were a therapist or something🤣.

You wouldn't be able to sleep for weeks because of all the private messages you'd get flooding in.😁

Quincy:

Regarding that restlessness... I don't even start feeling it until late at night, right when I know I should be winding down for bed. I guess that restlessness comes from the pressure of wondering, "Am I actually going to fall asleep tonight or not?"

You hit the nail on the head there. You're basically stressing yourself out over nothing.
My advice? Stop hanging out on these forums after 10 PM.😉

Quincy:

Do you know any doctors who might be able to help me (even via DM)?

Honestly, most doctors could probably help, and from what I can see, you don't seem to have anything super serious going on. 🤷

Quincy:

c)I work out twice a week in the afternoons and feel great afterward. Occasionally I'll do some extra stuff too—like swimming or using some equipment at home—but I don't overdo the exercise. Mostly, though, it just depends on whether I have my car available.😁

That sounds good; exercise is helpful, you just shouldn't go overboard.
If you're struggling to sleep, though, maybe try avoiding those afternoon workouts.

Quincy:

d)How much does sitting at a computer for more than 10 hours a day contribute to insomnia?

It’s the exact same deal as overexerting yourself in the afternoons.

If that's part of your job, then make sure you stretch every 15 minutes or take a quick walk around the office—or wherever you are. But if you're just wasting time scrolling through forums...😁 well, you're going to have to cut back on that addiction yourself, because at that point, nobody can help you but you.

My insomnia didn't actually start when I got my computer; it began when my mother fell ill and I spent those long nights watching over her. There was just so much sadness involved... I don't even know how to put it into words. Ever since then, my brain just won't stop racing the moment my head hits the pillow. It feels as though I am perpetually listening, waiting for something to happen—it's that lingering state of hyper-vigilance from when Mom was sick, because I felt I had to be ready if she needed me at any second. Since then, I have essentially been sleeping with one eye open...😢
It is as if I am trapped in a constant state of fear and tension, endlessly analyzing everything that happened during the day... I simply find myself incapable of relaxing enough to drift off.

crimsonhound80 said:And even if I were, I wouldn't tell you (that’s what one of my buddies always says) 😁

Just imagine if you went onto a psychology subforum and publicly announced you were a therapist or something🤣.

You wouldn't be able to sleep for weeks because of all the private messages you'd get flooding in.😁

Quincy:

Regarding that restlessness... I don't even start feeling it until late at night, right when I know I should be winding down for bed. I guess that restlessness comes from the pressure of wondering, "Am I actually going to fall asleep tonight or not?"

You hit the nail on the head there. You're basically stressing yourself out over nothing.
My advice? Stop hanging out on these forums after 10 PM.😉

Quincy:

Do you know any doctors who might be able to help me (even via DM)?

Honestly, most doctors could probably help, and from what I can see, you don't seem to have anything super serious going on. 🤷

Quincy:

c)I work out twice a week in the afternoons and feel great afterward. Occasionally I'll do some extra stuff too—like swimming or using some equipment at home—but I don't overdo the exercise. Mostly, though, it just depends on whether I have my car available.😁

That sounds good; exercise is helpful, you just shouldn't go overboard.
If you're struggling to sleep, though, maybe try avoiding those afternoon workouts.

Quincy:

d)How much does sitting at a computer for more than 10 hours a day contribute to insomnia?

It’s the exact same deal as overexerting yourself in the afternoons.

If that's part of your job, then make sure you stretch every 15 minutes or take a quick walk around the office—or wherever you are. But if you're just wasting time scrolling through forums...😁 well, you're going to have to cut back on that addiction yourself, because at that point, nobody can help you but you.

Well, it is my work... but the insomnia doesn't even let up when I am on vacation (I took three weeks off without touching a computer, yet sleep still wouldn't come)...

crimsonhound80 said:And even if I were, I wouldn't tell you (that’s what one of my buddies always says) 😁

Just imagine if you went onto a psychology subforum and publicly announced you were a therapist or something🤣.

You wouldn't be able to sleep for weeks because of all the private messages you'd get flooding in.😁

Quincy:

Regarding that restlessness... I don't even start feeling it until late at night, right when I know I should be winding down for bed. I guess that restlessness comes from the pressure of wondering, "Am I actually going to fall asleep tonight or not?"

You hit the nail on the head there. You're basically stressing yourself out over nothing.
My advice? Stop hanging out on these forums after 10 PM.😉

Quincy:

Do you know any doctors who might be able to help me (even via DM)?

Honestly, most doctors could probably help, and from what I can see, you don't seem to have anything super serious going on. 🤷

Quincy:

c)I work out twice a week in the afternoons and feel great afterward. Occasionally I'll do some extra stuff too—like swimming or using some equipment at home—but I don't overdo the exercise. Mostly, though, it just depends on whether I have my car available.😁

That sounds good; exercise is helpful, you just shouldn't go overboard.
If you're struggling to sleep, though, maybe try avoiding those afternoon workouts.

Quincy:

d)How much does sitting at a computer for more than 10 hours a day contribute to insomnia?

It’s the exact same deal as overexerting yourself in the afternoons.

If that's part of your job, then make sure you stretch every 15 minutes or take a quick walk around the office—or wherever you are. But if you're just wasting time scrolling through forums...😁 well, you're going to have to cut back on that addiction yourself, because at that point, nobody can help you but you.

Think what you want 🙄

Look, let me just ask openly: what's your hourly rate?
I know for a fact you aren't giving away advice for free ☕

Larry Cruz51 said:My insomnia didn't actually start when I got my computer; it began when my mother fell ill and I spent those long nights watching over her. There was just so much sadness involved... I don't even know how to put it into words. Ever since then, my brain just won't stop racing the moment my head hits the pillow. It feels as though I am perpetually listening, waiting for something to happen—it's that lingering state of hyper-vigilance from when Mom was sick, because I felt I had to be ready if she needed me at any second. Since then, I have essentially been sleeping with one eye open...😢
It is as if I am trapped in a constant state of fear and tension, endlessly analyzing everything that happened during the day... I simply find myself incapable of relaxing enough to drift off.

Well, it is my work... but the insomnia doesn't even let up when I am on vacation (I took three weeks off without touching a computer, yet sleep still wouldn't come)...

😢

Look, my mom is actually in the hospital right now too, and she's quite sick, so I truly, deeply understand what you're going through.

You might be dealing with some mild depression, and frankly, there isn't much I can say other than maybe check in with your primary care doctor to see if they'll prescribe something light, like Lexapro 2 mg or maybe some Ativan 15mg.
You also have the option of a solid sleep aid like Sanval at 5 mg; that stuff will definitely knock you out.
It doesn't cause as heavy an addiction as most hypnotics do, though—don't go taking it every single night regardless.

With both the Lexapro and the Ativan, you really have to be careful—you shouldn't be popping them like candy, but rather just occasionally when things are feeling really bad.

crimsonhound80 said:Exactly!

People dealing with what looks like masked depression—you know, those who aren't showing the typical symptoms—really ought to stick to light exercise. Nothing intense, nothing high-impact, because honestly? You might just end up making your mental state even worse.

There’s this huge misconception out there—and I see it all the time—that crushing it at the gym or doing high-intensity workouts actually helps depressed patients by supposedly "boosting serotonin."

But it's actually the exact opposite; you basically burn through your serotonin when you engage in intense physical exertion.

That brief little "high" people feel after a grueling workout? That's just a temporary spike from endorphins, better circulation, and getting more oxygen to the brain. It's fleeting.

High-intensity stuff is really meant for folks whose diagnosis includes restlessness, insomnia, or hyperactivity—basically things caused by having *too much* serotonin activity.

It’s pretty straightforward, really; you need a specialist doctor to figure out which category you actually fall into before you go charging off into any "intense training" regimes.🙂

Does that mean I shouldn't exercise at all since I struggle with depression and anxiety?!?

I'm currently on Effexor, Misar, and Cerson for severe depression and panic attacks. Just last night, I finally got back on my elliptical and managed a steady 60 minutes without even thinking about it. I have to admit, it felt really good...

So, in my case, is it better to work out or should I hold off?!?

Well, if it worked for you, then obviously it’s good. I mean, you don't really need some expert's opinion on stuff like that; just listen to your own body, I guess. 🙂

Larry Cruz51 said:So she'll just end up getting drunk then😁

Just kidding! But honestly, I deal with that constant restlessness too. My body is totally calm, yet my mind just keeps spinning and spinning... and then comes the insomnia:/

Even working out doesn't seem to fix it... maybe I'm doing it wrong by exercising in the afternoon🤷

Amanda Myers3, are you sleeping okay?

Signature😢 Same here. My biggest issue is when I actually *do* manage to pass out (whether I take a sleeping pill or just drift off naturally), I wake up three hours later and if I have to be up early, there's zero chance of going back to sleep.

crimsonhound80 said:😢

Look, my mom is actually in the hospital right now too, and she's quite sick, so I truly, deeply understand what you're going through.

You might be dealing with some mild depression, and frankly, there isn't much I can say other than maybe check in with your primary care doctor to see if they'll prescribe something light, like Lexapro 2 mg or maybe some Ativan 15mg.
You also have the option of a solid sleep aid like Sanval at 5 mg; that stuff will definitely knock you out.
It doesn't cause as heavy an addiction as most hypnotics do, though—don't go taking it every single night regardless.

With both the Lexapro and the Ativan, you really have to be careful—you shouldn't be popping them like candy, but rather just occasionally when things are feeling really bad.

Is Cerson actually in the same category as Normabel and Praxit?!?
And I'm supposed to be taking it every single day...