After a break up, you can catch yourself crying on the bus as you check Instagram for the fifth time in the morning. It is no secret that breakdowns affect our emotional state, so when you do not sleep for several nights in a row, you are to blame. But sometimes, insomnia after separation is more complicated than that.
A number of studies have found that stress is followed by insomnia and separations are very stressful. An analysis of these studies revealed that the pain we experience after separation is very similar to the pain we experience when losing a loved one: both of these circumstances can cause insomnia, negative thoughts, immunity problems, and even physical pain.
The only cure that works for you in such cases is time. Try to nourish the dopamine receptors (the hormone that makes us feel good) by meeting new people and getting as much work as we can.
Postpartum insomnia is usually acute insomnia - a period of no sleep that is caused by circumstances. During this time you can make small lifestyle changes that will help you sleep better: Stretch every night at the same hour, reduce caffeine intake, perform a bedtime routine such as a bath or read a book. You can also meditate or do breathing exercises.
However, although everyone is sad after a breakup, some suffer from depressive episodes. Insomnia is just a sign that sadness has become something more. Other signs are changes in appetite, hygiene and concentration.
If you feel bad thirty days after separation, it's normal. But if the symptoms last longer, maybe it's time to seek professional help.
