Sleep problems

Now you're back at home you may also find that you have some ongoing problems with sleep.

Here are some tips that may help:

• keep a day-night routine as much as you can
• take regular rest periods during the day to manage fatigue and tiredness (the fatigue that happens during the day may feel like “jet lag” and may stay for some time)
• if you can, accept help with household chores and daily activities
• build up your daytime routine slowly
• aim to get outside in the sunshine in the day
• limit screen time before bedtime
• limit alcohol use as this affects the quality of sleep
• take the time to recover, eat and sleep

Talk to those around you if you feel lonely or sad. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your loved ones. They may know you are struggling and want to help.

Where to go for support

General practitioner (GP)

Ask for help from your GP if you are having trouble sleeping and/or symptoms of anxiety, depression or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). You may need a referral to a counsellor, psychologist or psychiatrist. Your GP can also refer you to other services that can help with your recovery.

Intensive Care Follow-up Clinic

If the ICU at the hospital you were in has an ICU Follow Up Clinic, contact the hospital to make an appointment.

Related topics

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Nightmares and flashbacks
• Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS)
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

This topic was reviewed by an intensive care medicine specialist in July 2022.