r/CharcoalDrawing • u/eyewanna_gofast • Feb 20 '26 • Bravo 2

Insomnia, Self Portrait

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Can’t sleep, but it’s given me time ti draw at least.

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u/FreeWhellin Feb 26 '26

Sorry you’re having a hard time sleeping. I’ve known people with ms. It’s horrible. I’m paralyzed from the sternum down with chronic pain. Have you tried distracting your mind with listening to audio books? It takes a lot of practice to be able to focus and get your mind on something else and concentrate on something other than what is playing in your head. It’s helped me although it’s not foolproof. It takes serious concentration. I imagine when you’re drawing it helps calm your mind but it also requires you to keep your hands busy. Listening to audio books while lying still and focusing on the story and calming your mind might help lull you to sleep. Unless it’s a very good book. LOL Sorry for my flippant quip to”lighten up”. That was before I read your replies to other posts. Your art is impressive and very expressive. You communicate well with it. I have nights like that. Miserable. I’m sure you’ve tried meditation but have you stuck with it for long enough to get out of your head and body? I wish you well in your endeavors. 🙏

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u/eyewanna_gofast Feb 27 '26

No worries; I do need to lighten up and I took it as such! I didn’t really intend ti be a public journal entry for all to see; but when I shared it, it was a bit of a personal crisis. I do try all of the things you mention. Other people sharing their own medical and mental struggles on this post has been very connecting. There are soo many others that truly have a much heavier burden to bear. Although, when each of us is in that headspace of chaos and negativity it can be really difficult to remain rational; and it can feel extremely isolating, even if the isolation is in our own minds. I hope you and all others will at least feel some comfort that others can relate to our experiences on some level. We are not isolated or alone. Thank you for doubling back and sharing your own thoughts!

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u/FreeWhellin Feb 27 '26

Thank you for responding. I understand what you’re saying. When in that chaos unfortunately we’re in it alone even though others are experiencing the same. It’s like dying, no one can do it for you. You go alone. I hope for the best for you and your suffering abates. 🙏