This Is Actually Happening What if you didn’t sleep for 120 hours? [Rebroadcast #170]
Sep 9, 2025
Emily Caldwell, an adventurous traveler and mental health advocate, shares her vivid tale of extreme sleep deprivation during a trip to Tanzania. She discusses the overwhelming chaos and disorientation that comes with 120 hours without sleep, alongside the panic attacks that led her to confront her trauma and anxiety. Emily reflects on the transformative power of her travels and how they shaped her resilience in the face of mental health struggles, offering insights into her journey of healing and self-discovery.
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Sheltered Childhood Fueled Fearless Travel
- Emily describes a childhood that fostered curiosity, confidence, and a hunger to travel.
- Her parents' encouragement set the stage for risk-taking and exploration later in life.
Malaria Medicine And The First Sleepless Night
- Emily recounts starting malaria medication and arriving in Tanzania just before sleep problems began.
- She links the new medication and jet lag to the first long period of sleeplessness on the trip.
Panic In A Tent: Convinced She Was Dying
- After 60+ hours awake, Emily experienced a terrifying panic episode in a crowded tent and was convinced she was dying.
- Guides took her to a clinic on Zanzibar where they considered surgery before calming her with meds and contact with family.