Insomnia Is Taking More From Me Than Sleep

I had another nearly sleepless night, and today I’m struggling to do things that should be simple. I’ve reread the same messages several times, forgotten what I was doing halfway through tasks, and turned down plans because I don’t have the energy to hold a conversation. That’s the part of insomnia people don’t always see. It isn’t just being tired. My work has suffered, my social life has become smaller, and I barely recognize the person I was before sleep became such a struggle. I’ve worked with healthcare professionals and tried different routines and treatments. Sometimes something helps for a short while, and I start believing I may finally be getting my life back. Then it stops working, and the disappointment hits all over again. I miss having enough energy to enjoy ordinary things—going for a bike ride, spending time outside, or making plans without wondering whether I’ll be awake all night. I’m still looking for answers, but today I’m exhausted and discouraged.