Alarm clock creates panic attack--alternatives??

Hi.

Here's the basics: Have a problem with waking up to a sound like an alarm clock buzzing or phone ringing, just began recently. Induces a panic attack. Can't wake up to radio, my brain just doesn't get the idea that the sudden beginning of music (no matter how loud) is meant to wake me up. What now???


Here's a bit more history on the issue and on my issues:

I don't often write on this forum, but thought it was the right place for this issue. Not sure what started it, but somewhere around 6-8 months ago, I started having a problem with being very startled when i would wake up. At first, it was just random, not even always a sound that woke me (that I know of). It has escalated to the point where at least a few times a week, I either get a phone call to wake me (which i have asked for) or when my alarm goes off, it sets a panic attack in motion. I "freak out" and end up w/ the very same symptoms as a panic attack...heart pounding, sweating like crazy, can't breathe, terror feeling, sometimes nausea, just completely turned upside down it seems.

This really causes a horrible start to the day. Takes a while to calm down and even causes some degree of depression and anger. Just really throws me off for a couple hours sometimes.

I have many rather bad chronic health problems, I don't work, my "work" is going to multiple doc appts. every day, etc. I am being treated for bipolar type II, SAD, anxiety disorder, sleep issues (mostly insomnia lately). On many meds, which include clonazepam at night and in the middle of the night if needed to get back to sleep.

Incredibly stressed lately. Going to be having a 3 in 1 surgery in January (colostomy, hysterectomy, and bladder sling), so lots of appts. and testing to figure it all out. Have lots of nerve damage to bowel and bladder from Spina Bifida, chronic back pain from past spinal cord surgeries, chronic migraines, recently dx with fibromyalgia, bulging discs/degeneration/stenosis in neck, causing pinched nerve in neck which affects left arm/hand, multiple extensive GI problems, mental health issues, and also need to begin having dental work to replace my teeth with implant system. I am 36, female. Lots going on. Lots of meds, not sure what is triggering the panic lately. I guess stress is likely the answer.

So, trying to find an alarm clock that will wake me if I am ever able to sleep soundly, but not scare the crap out of me. I have read about a wrist thing that vibrates to wake you, anyone heard of that?? I know they also make ones that either have flashing lights or the gradual light coming on in the room, others that can sorta shake the bed (sounds rather terrifying). Not sure what else is out there.

Any thoughts or suggestions? It's getting ridiculous, I hate waking up, I am afraid of being startled. Sorry for such a long post, just thought you might want to know who I am and stuff. I often post on chronic pain and ostomy forums, sometimes IBS and depression ones too. Gonna check out fibro one of these days also.

Thanks for listening.


Sunny.

Alarm clocks are the worst I have a new sound thats a rooster , scares the crap out of my cat, but I like it. They do have sleep trackers which will vibrate to wake you up.. they also let you know how well youre sleeping, and if you need more sleep amongst other things. it's called a fitbit, but there are other brands too

Sunny,

There's a reasone they call them ALARM clocks, right? I understand, and certainly see why you would not want to add to your morining anxiety and sleep issues with something that started the day off in this fashion for you!

How about checking our these options? They could be what you are looking for in terms of waking up gently and gradually.

http://www.mea.philips.com/c-p/AJH5100_12/clock-radio

http://lifehacker.com/how-to-turn-your-phone-into-the-ultimate-alarm-clock-fo-1247925652

http://www.hammacher.com/Product/Default.aspx?sku=84656&refsku=81819

Also, be sure and check out our Resources for great self-help relaxation exercises and coping tips to keep you as anxiety free as possible. You can find these on our main page, 1st thread. They are very effectice in lowering overall stress levels.

I wish you the best with your upcoming procedures! I know that this can be unnerving to face. Post with us anytime for support!

Scaredy Cat

Get a cat. Feed the cat same time every morning for a week, at the time you need to get up. I promise, after a week you will no longer need an alarm clock.

I bought a standard timer at wal-mart for 5 bucks...its over by the paint. You use this to auto start/stop something everyday. Its a box with a dial and pins. The pins go in around the dial and will turn off or on an item. I use one to turn outdoor lights on and off. You simply set the pins where you want and plug item into it and it into an outlet.
If you have an electrical item that will wake you up (light or fan or ?) this might work?

Ps Cats also help to reduce your stress...when you are petting them at least. Nothing like a purring bag of fur to say I love you.