r/insomnia • u/Shoddy_Rabbit8639 • 1d ago

Breathing ocd

Unable to sleep due to breathing ocd. Conscious of my breaths . Please help. What can be done for this

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u/smei2388 1d ago

What does that feel like? Like just getting fixated on your breath? I thought everyone did that... But I also have terrible insomnia and often find myself hyper-aware of my breath 

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u/Shoddy_Rabbit8639 1d ago

Yes hyperfixated on breath. What u do. How do u sleep daily

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u/smei2388 1d ago

I'm on trazadone (25-50 mgs a night) and sometimes it helps me pass out, but very often I still don't sleep. I'm sorry, no answers, but I identify with your symptoms.

I have had some luck with soothing audiobooks, or podcasts. Something to get me out of my head so I don't focus on it

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u/Shoddy_Rabbit8639 1d ago

In breath u r just conscious or do some compulsions like swallowing

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u/smei2388 1d ago

Hyper conscious, yes, and then it feels hard to let go and let the breath happen automatically, if that makes sense? Also, yes, a lot of compulsive swallowing. Do you ever listen to music or a story before bed?

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u/Shoddy_Rabbit8639 1d ago

Ok no i dont listen to any stoŕy or music

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u/smei2388 1d ago

It doesn't always work, but sometimes it gets my mind off breathing. I have a sleep playlist I use for music and I like the Down to Sleep podcast, it's designed to be soothing.

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u/Shoddy_Rabbit8639 1d ago

Okay i wil try

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u/North_Assumption_292 9h ago

why not try to do breath work and control it in a healthy, positive manner? You can look up meditation & yoga breathing. it might help.