At the end of my retreat I was speaking with another participant. I talked how I slept much better in the latter days of the retreat. He suggested the weighted blanket. He uses one and told me PTSD symptoms are higher when serotonin levels in the body are lowered. It is believed trauma impacts the serotonin system. He said the weighted blanket is pressure sensitive to the body, hugging one, and this helps to promote production of serotonin and endorphins which aid in sleep. He also told most of our serotonin is produced in the stomach. I told him of my test the next day and the pains I have experienced in the stomach for the past six or seven months. He said that could be interfering in the production of my serotonin that result in nightmares and flashbacks. I spoke with the doctor the next day after the test, he said it is a possibility and of course wanted to have the test results before giving any recommendations.
I am willing to try anything because the sleeplessness has returned, along with the pain, nightmares and flashbacks.
I will explore the weighted blanket. Thank you--always great to hear what works for some--
Kevin