When Sleep Won’t Come: You’re Not Broken, You’re Human

If you’re lying awake at night staring at the ceiling, checking the clock, replaying conversations, worrying about tomorrow, or wondering why your body just won’t rest — you’re not alone.

I hear this every week from people of all ages and backgrounds. Some are anxious about the state of the world. Some are grieving. Some are dealing with illness. Some are navigating menopause or hormonal shifts. Others are simply overwhelmed, exhausted, and stuck in a cycle of overthinking that won’t shut off.

Insomnia doesn’t discriminate.

And struggling with sleep doesn’t mean something is “wrong” with you.

Why So Many People Are Struggling With Sleep Right Now

We are living in a time of constant stimulation and uncertainty. The nervous system was never meant to be “on” all the time — yet many of us go from work stress, family responsibilities, news alerts, social media, and unprocessed emotions straight into bed.

When your mind and body don’t feel safe, they resist rest.

For many people:

• Anxiety keeps the brain alert at night

• Stress shows up as racing thoughts or a tight chest

• Hormonal changes disrupt sleep cycles

• Chronic illness causes discomfort or pain

• Grief and loss surface when everything gets quiet

Sleep becomes the place where everything we’ve pushed down finally shows up.

The Pressure to “Fix” Sleep Often Makes It Worse

One of the most stressful things about insomnia is the fear of it.

“If I don’t sleep, tomorrow will be terrible.”

"What’s wrong with me?”

“Why can everyone else sleep?”

This pressure actually signals danger to the brain, keeping the body in a heightened state. Rest doesn’t come through force — it comes through safety.

Sometimes the goal isn’t perfect sleep.

Sometimes the goal is gentler nights.

Small, Grounding Approaches That Can Help

Everyone’s body is different, but many people find relief through simple, consistent practices rather than drastic changes.

Some gentle strategies that often help:

• Creating a predictable wind-down routine (even if short)

• Limiting news and social media before bed

• Dim lighting in the evening to signal rest

• Writing worries down earlier in the night instead of carrying them to bed

• Breathing slowly and deeply to calm the nervous system

• Giving yourself permission to rest, even if sleep doesn’t come immediately

  
  

For some, natural supplements can also be supportive.

A Note on Natural Sleep Supports

Many people — myself included — have found Magnesium glycinate helpful for relaxation and calming the nervous system, as well as Holy Basil, which can support stress regulation. These are often used as gentler alternatives to sleep medications for some individuals.

That said, it’s important to be mindful.

Disclaimer: I am not a medical doctor. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any supplements, especially if you are pregnant, managing a medical condition, or taking prescribed medications, as supplements may interact with certain treatments.

If You’re Not Sleeping, Please Hear This

You are not failing.

You are not weak.

You are not alone in this.

Your body may simply be asking for safety, compassion, and care — not criticism.

If sleep is hard right now, it doesn’t mean it will always be this way. Healing often begins with understanding, not pressure.

Tonight, if rest feels out of reach, try reminding yourself:

“I am allowed to slow down. My body is doing the best it can.”

Sometimes, that gentle permission is the first step toward rest.