A few years ago, I totally avoided sleep. No way would I let those flashbacks or nightmares come and get me. End result, CRASH #3. Well, some coping strategies just don't work do they ...

Medications, grounding techniques, 2 AM - that magic time of night that the world explodes - what is it with that time? (me too, then up until 5 with one more hour of sleep).

I finally figured out leaving the lights on helped me. When I come out of a flashback or wake in a nightmare it helps me to ground faster to be able to immediately see my surroundings and look at my cue board where I place the date , current pictures of family and friends, and places that I feel safe.

Sleep is important, but I haven't had comfortable sleep in years. Once in a while when I'm away from home near the ocean or in a rain storm next to the window or in a tent.

If you sleep alone lights are no problem. If not buy them an eye mask.