GeraldineTrouble Falling Asleep : Geraldine, 35, executive secretary.
Problem: Began 11 years ago when her first child was born. He kept her up a lot at night,
and her sleep has never been the same since. Is depressed about not sleeping, but does
not seem depressed otherwise.
Before she began using the "Sleep Better Without Drugs" program: Takes 3-4 hours to
fall asleep on most nights, and often gets no sleep at all. Becomes very frustrated
while lying in bed. Says to herself: 'I’ve got to get to sleep now or I’ll never make
it through the day tomorrow'. Doubts that the program will help her: 'I’m a card
carrying member of the Sceptics Club'.
After: Using the program for 4-6 weeks: Now falls asleep within 30 minutes (which is
normal), and sleeps 5-7 hours on most nights. Is awake for about an hour during
the night on most nights, but is not worried, as she eventually goes back to sleep. Is
much less tired during the day. Is no longer depressed now that she is sleeping better.
'Around the 3-4 week mark I was convinced: ‘This is not going to work’. But I stuck at
it anyway, and since then it has been really marvelous. I no longer dread going to
bed. All my fears of sleep have gone'.
Elements that seem to have been important include going to bed 1-2 hours later, doing
relaxation during the day and in bed, and learning to reduce worrying while awake during
the night (including reducing worrying about 'not sleeping').
