Daytime drowsiness and difficulty falling asleep at night after starting a psychiatrist-prescribed medication

Medications started by a psychiatrist can cause noticeable daytime drowsiness and difficulty falling asleep at night. These side effects often improve gradually over the first 1–3 weeks; many people notice improvement within 1–2 weeks. General supportive measures (for information only; not a substitute for medical advice): - Take the medication at the same time every day; if night doses disturb sleep, discuss switching to a morning dose with your prescriber. - Limit caffeine intake in the afternoon and evening. - Avoid long daytime naps; if needed, keep naps to 15–20 minutes. - Get daylight exposure during the day and light exercise; stop screens at least 1 hour before bedtime and avoid heavy evening meals. - Be cautious with driving or tasks requiring attention if you feel drowsy. Decisions about changing dose or dosing time, reducing dose, or switching medications should only be made by your prescriber; do not change or stop medication on your own. If you are considering short-term sleep aids or supplements, discuss these with your doctor or pharmacist. Seek urgent medical evaluation if any of the following occur: severe restlessness or inability to sit still, severe palpitations, high fever, muscle stiffness, confusion, thoughts of self-harm, fainting, or a new rash/possible allergic reaction. When to contact your prescriber: If you switch to a morning dose and do not see clear improvement within 5–7 days, or if daytime drowsiness severely affects your quality of life, contact your psychiatry clinician.