The Isolating Experience of Night Time Anxiety

When we lie awake at night with only our anxious mind for companionship, we can be tricked into believing all of its wild stories; believe we are unique in this night-time anxiety and suffering; and convinced that no-one else could understand how isolating this feels.

Anxiety feels most overwhelming in the middle of the night when it's dark and quiet outside and the world feels very very still.

Night Time Anxiety

As someone who suffered extreme anxiety for such a long time [and still can, at times], there's an anxious part of me who occasionally comes out at night, I have affectionately named her Night Me.

Night Me feels very small and vulnerable. She worries about the most random tasks; ruminates over old mistakes and mishaps; and conjures up anxiety-provoking catastrophes for the future. She would win awards for her creative imaginings!

Sound familiar? I think we've all been there at times when life feels big.

When the sun comes up and the new day dawns, I find it hard to relate to Night Me. Her stories seem so pessimistic and overwhelming, like the ravings of someone who has forgotten that those fears and catastrophes will likely never, ever happen.

If you too suffer isolating night time anxiety (have a Night Me), remember in the dark everything is amplified and feels larger than it is.

Hug a pillow, or someone next to you, breathe deeply and really try and relax. Remind your Night Me that things will feel very very different in the new morning light. They always do. Without dismissing genuine worries, which we all have to work through at times, every new day is an opportunity for a fresh new perspective.

“Let your past be a reason for growth and greatness not blame and shame.

Today is a new day!”

~ Carol Miller

Speak with someone. It's interesting to see that when we share with those around us, they often confide their own experiences in return. We realise we are not alone and remember these are common human emotions. Neither should you accept this as your ongoing reality - reach out for support and find out what anxiety is trying to tell you with the warm guidance of The Barefoot Therapist.