I'm Trapped In My Own Body Because Of My Idiopathic Hypersomnia | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Health and Wellness

I'm Trapped In My Own Body Because Of My Idiopathic Hypersomnia

Wishing you could be awake, for even a day. I'm a prisoner in a mind clouded by fog.

360
I'm Trapped In My Own Body Because Of My Idiopathic Hypersomnia
Gillian Schwartz

Trapped.

I am trapped in a body and mind that is in a constant state of sleep deprivation.

Now, if you're reading this you are probably thinking, "Well, yeah you and every other college student are sleep deprived."

Unfortunately, mines not just from those 2 AM studying binders and the lack of time management.

Earlier this past year I was diagnosed with Idiopathic hypersomnia. Which means basically my body is tired all time, no amount of sleep or naps can lift the constant stage of fighting back my heavy eyelids.

When I was diagnosed I was over the moon excited that I finally had some answers, and I wasn't just lazy or depressed.

After being diagnosed it came down to what medications could I take that would finally lift this foggy feeling I've always felt.

There is no cure.

There isn't one medication to make it go away.

Those statements made me feel powerless, and trapped.

When people ask me what it feels like, it basically feels like you are drunk. You feel like your eyes move slower, your reaction time isn't as fast, you are forgetful, it's hard to concentrate.

Only, when you're drunk those side effects eventually wear off and you go back to feeling normal.

I never do.

Sometimes I do think this condition has some side effects of depression, nothing major but there is something emotionally taxing about constantly having to try to be peppy and happy and not look or feel like you haven't slept in days.

Mind over matter.

I believe that mind over matter works until it's your mind that is the problem.

I've been told I need to learn to cope with it and find a sleep schedule.

What college student has a normal life schedule?

The problem with coping is that tactic lies right where IH is. My brain can't cope because it's too busy just trying to keep my eyes open.

It's not all bad, you have good days where you don't feel as bad and you complete everything on your to-do list. But the bad days, are bad.

You are a zombie, you watch your day go by, you go through the motions but by the end of it, you can't really even remember what happened that day.

I'm grateful for the resources and especially for the support system, even more so my roommates who constantly make sure I am awake.

Your mind can be a powerful thing, I just want clarity in mine.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

16685
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

7154
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

5267
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

4607
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments