OP, I'm not over 50, but when I was pregnant, the change in my hormones REALLY affected my anxiety level and insomnia. I think that's somewhat at issue for you, too. However, having a "stressful" home life with lots of drama isn't good for anyone and even if the hormones are exacerbating your problems, I suspect that's the real cause.

Might I recommend, in addition to possibly checking out Xanax, seeking out a cognitive-behavioral therapist? They help you develop healthier habits for dealing with stress and anxiety that are permanent and can really help. I should mention I actually have anxiety disorder and panic disorder (that were much worse when my hormones were out of whack), and didn't want to have to be tethered to medication(/couldn't take meds when pregnant) to be able to be calm. CBT has been a godsend!

oP here, we just have a lot of stress in the house. It effects me passive/agressively in doing things. I wish there was a pill for that but it could be my personality too along with age, so sick of dealing with things in drama formation all the time. Insomina is really due to perimenopause and worrying. I am not totally dysfunctional but who knows everyones definition is different.

Xanax should be used situationally. If you are deathly afraid of flying or have to give a public speech or something. It's very habit forming when taken daily.

PP here, Just wanted to mention I went through a period of horrible insomnia and night sweats, also frequent severe hot flashes during the days. I tried many natural remedies and nothing worked for me. I finally had a talk with my gyn. and I am taking low dose hormone replacement and have been for over a year. It has GREATLY improved my quality of life and I I only wish I had started the replacement treatment earlier.

Anonymous wrote:Maybe it's menopause and not getting enough sleep. I worry less in some area, i.e. what people think of me but I worry more about my kids, finances, health. Anyone take xanax? What does it do exactly?

I am not a big worrier, but I have occasional episodes of severe anxiety. For example, while DD was completing the road portion of her driver's test, my heart rate went to 120 and I felt panicky. I now have a prescription for Xanax, but it is to use only on an "as needed" basis. I only need to take one tablet every few weeks, for the most part. The Xanax makes me feel kind of disconnected from what's going on around me, so I only take for severe anxiety episodes.
It is hard for me to tell if my anxiety is related to aging issues, or if it is because my kids are older now and I have to start the "letting-go" process. I have anticipatory grief over DD going to college next year.
Are you not getting enough sleep because of insomnia, or do you just not have the time for enough sleep?

Maybe it's menopause and not getting enough sleep. I worry less in some area, i.e. what people think of me but I worry more about my kids, finances, health. Anyone take xanax? What does it do exactly?