Hi, my name is bill_i_am!

bill_i_am

Im a disabled 35 yr I'mold dad of 4, I've been struggling with sleep since my accident in 2021, I broke my neck and lower back in a swimming accident and have had regular panic attacks during sleep ever since, I had surgery in January of this year and still have the same problem, its difficult enough with the pain making it hard to sleep anyway but its really starting to get me down I've tried so hard to stay positive but I'm feeling defeated, I would really appreciate any advice any 1 could give me I really need help with this. Thanks in advaance 

Hannah_Alumni

Hello @bill_i_am

Welcome to the community!  

I'm so sorry you've been struggling with sleep and dealing with pain. We don't give medical advice on the community, we would always encourage members to talk to their GP or specialist. It is also worth asking your pharmacist. They may be able to recommend something over the counter. I know trying to get GP appointments can still be difficult for some.

bill_i_am

I wasn't asking for medical advice I do apologise for the confusion, I just need some sort sort of advice or help nobody will help me because they have a legal obligation? If ur advice doesnt help ill move on im not trying to sue people I just want some advice from some 1 in a similar situation so I can continue being the hard working dad I once was im sorry if people feel scared or anxious about saying anything but please I meed ideas. 

WelshBlue

Hi @bill_i_am

Have you had any input from Psychology or CMHT   
Are they panic attacks or flashbacks to a traumatic event which could point towards possible PTSD ?

A question that really needs to be answered by professionals.  I only speak from experience from having PTSD and knowing how my sleep is impacted by it.  The waking gasping for breath etc, I'm in no way qualified for diagnosis

It may be worth you talking to your GP about changing medication if your current one isn't helping, asking for a referral to a Psychologist and about Pain Management Clinics in your area.  This is of course if you haven't already been down this avenue


Good luck

Hannah_Alumni

No confusion @bill_i_am It's more a disclaimer we put up for other users too. It also helps stop spammers! I'm so sorry it has been making you feel anxious, can I ask, do you have support around you? I encourage you to speak to your GP, Specialist or Pharmacist still. 

I see WelshBlue has given some great advice too

bill_i_am

Thanks guys, I have been referred to psychology and physio therapy but I've had nothing yet, but I did wait nearly 2 years from breaking my neck till surgery so I'm trying to educate/help myself. this is helpful though and the gasping is just due to the fight or flight mode rush from the atacks/seizures i do believe, and yes I do have my family around me which is great but I end up feeling bad because of all the ways I affect people due to my behaviours, which is more stressful because I cant be myself anymore, anyway its so easy to go to a dark place now and I hate it I do believe sleep will definitely help me thpugh and thats why im seeking help.

chiarieds

Hi @bill_i_am - can I just jump in speaking as a long-retired physio, & someone who suffered panic attacks for a while. If you would, please try this breathing technique which I used to teach, then used when I had panic attacks in more recent years, & still use daily as a way to aid relaxation/sleep: https://www.nbt.nhs.uk/sites/default/files/attachments/Diaphragmatic Breathing.pdf 

As you will see this also helps with both stress & pain, which is why I continue to use this to at least make things 'manageable,' as my chronic pain is unfortunately here to stay. Practice breathing like this during the day so you have got the hang of it if needed during the night.

We also have a link as to some ideas to manage pain here on Scope, which I hope you'll look at: https://forum.scope.org.uk/discussion/102784/resources-and-tips-for-those-living-with-chronic-pain

I think we'd all agree that both mind & body work together & we need to manage the health of both. You need to find what works for you, & often it's a combination of things that works, so some 'trial & error' is needed on your part (as well as your Drs!). For example I always use 'diaphragmatic breathing' as a tool, which helps both mind & body, distraction, mindfulness, & of course the physio in me always uses now 'gentle exercise.'