Question: Generally drink a bottle of red wine before bed to get to sleep (have been feeling quite anxious before bedtime). I know this is an issue and have recently sought help for it. Have been referred to a psychologist whom I will have my first appointment with in two weeks. I have not received any medications from doctor and am not taking any medications.

Recently (last six months), have woken up after a couple of hours sleep and not able to return to sleep (after drinking). Wake up feeling very jittery. I find this feeling disturbing. I try and go back to sleep, but the "jitteriness" is uncomfortable, and I find I get "nightmare-style flashes" when I close my eyes. I have tried breathing slowly, having a drink of water, etc, but it does not work. I have to get out of bed and watch tv until it is morning, and then I am generally able to sleep again. Needless to say it is exhausting.

Would like to know if the jittery feeling is related to the anxiety I initially feel (pre-drinking), or if it could be from the alcohol/sugar in alcohol/etc?

Would like to know what I could do to help alleviate the anxiety I feel before bedtime? (If I don't drink before bed, I cannot sleep until it is morning). I have already tried relaxing, drinking teas, having a bath, etc.

Thanks for your help and suggestions.