What medication can I take for insomnia caused by having too much on my mind?

Having trouble sleeping due to mental distress may be caused by excessive stress, overactive thinking before bedtime, anxiety disorder, depression, neurasthenia, and other factors. This can be improved through emotional regulation, better sleep habits, and medication. If insomnia lasts more than two weeks or is accompanied by abnormal mood changes, prompt medical attention is necessary.

1. Excessive mental stress: Accumulated pressure from life or work keeps the brain in a constant state of tension, making it difficult to relax and leading to insomnia, often accompanied by racing thoughts. It is recommended to relieve stress through talking with others or physical exercise. Listening to soothing music before bed can help shift focus, and one should avoid obsessing over minor issues.

2. Overactive thinking before bedtime: Repeatedly dwelling on worries or planning tasks before sleep keeps the brain highly stimulated, preventing the onset of sleep, possibly causing difficulty falling asleep. It is advised to stop engaging in complex thinking one hour before bedtime. Reading a physical book or soaking feet in warm water may help the brain relax.

3. Anxiety disorder: Prolonged anxiety leads to nervous system dysfunction. Worrisome thoughts at bedtime can cause insomnia and vivid dreams, along with symptoms such as palpitations and restlessness. Under medical guidance, medications such as sertraline tablets, paroxetine tablets, or lorazepam tablets may be used to alleviate symptoms.

4. Depression: Low mood disrupts sleep regulation, manifesting as early morning awakening and difficulty falling asleep. Insomnia and depressed mood exacerbate each other, often accompanied by loss of interest. Patients may take fluoxetine tablets, venlafaxine extended-release tablets, mirtazapine tablets, or similar medications under a doctor's supervision to improve symptoms.

5. Neurasthenia: Prolonged mental strain leads to heightened nerve excitability and easy mental fatigue, resulting in sleep disturbances. Insomnia may be accompanied by poor concentration and fatigue. Patients may use oryzanol tablets, vitamin B1 tablets, estazolam tablets, or similar medications as directed by a physician to relieve discomfort.

Maintain a regular sleep schedule with consistent bedtime hours. Avoid electronic screens and vigorous exercise before sleep. Eat a light diet and minimize spicy or stimulating foods. Engage appropriately in outdoor activities to relax the mind and body and promote better sleep.