TeenHealthFX - Answers - Can't Sleep Because I Dread The Next Day

Other Emotional Health Issues / Question
Published: January 31, 2009

Dear TeenHealthFX,

I am a 14 year-old male and I have a sleep problem. I'm not sure if it's out of the ordinary or common, but I cannot sleep because I dread the next day. Even when I know something good will happen or am excited for the next day I simply can't sleep. When I attempt to fall asleep at night I am filled with this dull sense of sadness and simply have to get up and do something else. This is resulting in 3-4 hours of sleep a night. Please I know it may not be fixable over a simply reply but anything will help.

Signed: Can't Sleep Because I Dread The Next Day

Dear Can't Sleep Because I Dread The Next Day,

TeenHealthFX can appreciate how frustrated you must be to have this sleep problem. Many people who have trouble falling asleep end up feeling very irritated and hopeless about the situation, and come to dread nighttime and the whole process of going to bed. Plus, it’s very hard for anyone – especially children and teens – to get through the day on 3-4 hours of sleep. It is easy to subsequently feel very moody and to have trouble functioning throughout the day when going on such little sleep.

Some people have trouble sleeping because they are dealing with a mood disorder, such as depression or bipolar disorder. Others have trouble sleeping due to anxiety – the constant worrisome thoughts that go through their heads keep them from being able to fall asleep. People who are experiencing a lot of stress in the lives can also find it very hard to fall asleep at night. Certain medical conditions can also contribute to sleep difficulties.

FX thinks that it would be helpful for you to meet with your primary care physician to rule out any underlying medical issues contributing to your difficulties sleeping. If there are no medical issues associated with your sleep problems, then meet with a mental health professional who can evaluate if a mood disorder, anxiety disorder, or stress is contributing to your difficulties sleeping. A therapist can develop an effective treatment plan with you depending on what the main cause is. In addition, a therapist can work with you to help you learn various relaxation techniques and breathing methods that can help you to sleep. Some therapists are trained in teaching hypnotherapy techniques which can be very helpful for people dealing with anxieties or sleep issues.

FX recommends that you speak with your parents about your sleep issues and the dread and sadness you are feeling at night so that they can arrange a consultation with a medical professional and therapist for you. If you don't have a doctor and live in northern New Jersey, you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973-971-6475 for an appointment or contact your local teen health center. You can also contact your insurance company for a list of in-network primary care physicians.

If you live in northern New Jersey and need help finding a therapist you can call the Access Center from Atlantic Behavioral Health at 888-247-1400. Outside of this area you can log onto the US Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website for referrals in your area. You can also contact your insurance company to get a list of in-network mental health providers or check with your school social worker or psychologist to get a list of referrals in your area.

Signed: TeenHealthFX