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Would the doctor be able to help with my sleeping problems?

Bloodheart
over 10 years ago

I have severe sleeping problems due to being autistic...


I'm incapable of regulating my sleeping pattern, currently either I don't sleep or I'm sleeping 11am-5pm. My body doesn't follow the 24 hour clock and doesn't tell me when I'm tired, also I get so caught-up in what I'm doing I lose track of time and when I do notice the time my executive functioning issues kick-in so I can't decide if I should go to bed or stay-up to tire myself out to try to sleep at a normal time tomorrow (doesn't work). Furthermore sleep is completely unappealing to me; I like being busy but sleep is just laying in a room in the dark doing nothing for 7-8 hours. 

Obviously it's not an issue of stress or sleep hygiene, and over the-counter sleeping pills or melatonin don't work at all. The only thing that works is travelling half way round the world (-8 hours) to be with my boyfriend (who sleeps 9pm-5am), his sleeping pattern helps regulate mine but only for a short time. I can also often sleep on the sofa in the sitting room - I think because I can have the TV on so I'm still busy up until I sleep rather than purposefully stopping doing something to go do nothing (sleep). 

Not sleeping means I'm tired and the usual health problems that come with it, neurologically it makes my autism and RLS worse too so it becomes a viscous circle with both conditions keeping me awake, plus I can get nothing done during the day. 

I think it's standard in the UK not to give sleeping tablets at all, and not sure what else could be used to help, so is it even worth going to a doctor about this?
  • 16 days ago

    I understand your struggles with regulating your sleeping pattern. It can be frustrating and confusing when your body doesn't seem to follow a normal rhythm. It's interesting that you mention being able to sleep on the sofa with the TV on. It seems like you may be more comfortable falling asleep when you're still engaged in some type of activity. Perhaps you could try creating a similar environment in your bedroom by listening to soothing music or a podcast while you fall asleep. You also mentioned that you get so caught up in what you're doing that you lose track of time. This is a common problem, especially in today's fast-paced world. One suggestion is to set a timer for yourself to remind you to take breaks and get up and move around. This can help to prevent you from getting too engrossed in your work or activities. Finally, it's important to remember that sleep is essential for your overall health and well-being. Even if it doesn't always feel appealing, it's crucial to make it a priority. By implementing some of these suggestions, you may be able to improve your sleep habits and get the rest you need.

    But absolutely yes, the GP will likely be able to give you something to help you sleep or refer you for therapy or CBT. CBT can help with sleeping.

    I hope this helps. Take care and hopefully you'll be sleeping better soon.

  • 16 days ago
    Bloodheart said:
    I think it's standard in the UK not to give sleeping tablets at all

    I would speak to your doctor and ask for a reference to a sleep specialist - these guys know their stuff and will be able to help.

    Bloodheart said:
    The only thing that works is travelling half way round the world (-8 hours) to be with my boyfriend

    Is this also a cause of you staying up late to speak with him?

    Bloodheart said:
    sleep is completely unappealing to me; I like being busy but sleep is just laying in a room in the dark doing nothing for 7-8 hours.

    It would help to see sleep in the same sort of league as eating a meal, going to the toilet etc - all are necessary for your health and safe existance. It is a time to let your mind rest, process the days information and to let your body do some self healing.

    It may be worth speaking with a therapist with a knowledge of autism and sleep disorders. I did a search and found the following:

    https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/counselling/england?category=autism&spec=190

    There seem to be plenty out there but it helps to look at their profiles before deciding if they feel like a good fit.

    I expect the ideal outcome will need both a therapist (for the day to day advice) and the sleep specialist via you doctor (for any meds or special tests).

  • 16 days ago

    I expect the Dr would be able to help you. I'm thinking of going to my Dr about my sleep difficulties.

  • over 10 years ago

    Yes.  You can request time-released melatonin such as Circadin and try that, you may have been given the quick release one before which is less effective as if you waken it has worn off by then.

    You have sleep phase disorder, which is common in autism and I have it too.  Even if I sleep normal hours I feel exhausted and naturally I want to be awake late into the small hours and sleep late in the morning.

    If you want to try sleeping tablets you will probably find it easy to get prescribed but bear in mind that us on the spectrum react to medication as we are more prone to side-effects.