Sleep…. This word can generate a mixture of feelings for many. Some people find it so easy to just lay their head down, turn off the inside chatter of their mind for a bit, and fall into a good snooze. But for others, sleep is a tease- a taunting pleasure just out of reach, and for various reasons. For those living with MS, it’s very common fatigue symptom can be in constant conflict with sleep. Those who need to rest but find they can’t, or getting sleep at unwanted/inconvenient times, etc. We know that sleep is extremely important for our minds and bodies, but it’s not always easy to attain.
Trying to get into a good sleep routine can be difficult especially when dealing with fatigue or other MS symptoms. What can help? Some people have tried everything and anything and still the sleep hygiene recommendations are just out of reach. So, finding what works best for you and your body is really all you can do. Trying to rest when you can-this may include taking naps if needed. Some people enjoy naps, others do not. But when your body tells you it needs a break, that may be at different times of the day or night, and it wants you to listen. Try to turn off the electronics when you can; this in itself is a challenge. Shutting down comes in different forms, which includes putting aside the devices when needed.
If you find yourself exhausted and fatigued, it’s important to not over-exert yourself with tasks of the day. Yes, easier said than done. But if you haven’t gotten enough rest you may not be able to physically or mentally carry these out. Our bodies let us know its limits whether we like it or not. So, when you can ask others for help, do so if it means you getting some much-needed rest. And if you’re able to, talk to your doctor for additional tips on help with sleep-they may have new suggestions that you haven’t tried. Experiment with things that may help you rest easier too. Things like teas, music/white noise, different room temperatures, certain pillows/blankets. It might take a different combination of things and some trial and error to find what works best for you.
As if trying to sleep isn’t challenging enough, trying to get others to understand the fatigue and exhaustion MS creates can be daunting too. Not that you have to explain yourself to others. But if they have an interest in trying to better understand what you’re going through, talk about it in ways that are easy for you. Describe how you feel and communicate what your needs are so that you can hopefully catch some much-needed zzz’s.
