What do I do to stop sleeping during Mass?

[bibisnail]

I have a big problem that has been troubling me for years now. I suffer from a mental disorder that causes me to be very sleepy for hours after I wake up, and this includes during Mass. I am so sleepy during Mass that I hallucinate and see and hear things that aren’t there. Dozing off and being sleepy in Mass causes me much suffering and sadness, not only because people notice and think badly of me, but more importantly I miss out on the Mass. I want to be awake and alert to appreciate the depth and beauty of it. I have tried caffeinated drinks and they don’t help. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Michelle_Arnold]

As for the medical aspect, you’ll have to consult with your doctor about that. I can only advise that if you are sleepy at the time you’re headed out to Mass, then you should not go. If there is a time of day during which you are alert and rested, you can try to find a Mass that fits that alert period. Otherwise, you have just reason to miss Mass. But however understandable your condition, which I do not mean in any way to suggest is your fault, you should not be at Mass if you cannot stay awake. Not only is there the possibility of scandalizing other congregants, but you are a danger to yourself (and perhaps others) if you are sleepy at a time when you need to travel in public.