Jane R wrote: I've had sleeping problems for literally years now and it's worsened over the past year. I either can't fall asleep so get up and go back at about 3am or later, or fall asleep then wake about 2 and can't get back to sleep so get up and go back an hour or so later. I usually fall asleep about 4am then wake around 6..
It doesn't affect me adversely, sometimes i nod off for 20 minutes in the day, but otherwise feel fine. I just find it so frustrating lying in the darkness unable to sleep.
In desperation consulted my clinic doctor who has prescribed Zopiclone but they are still sitting in the cupboard unopened. I can't bring myself to take a 'sleeping tablet' though am on a myriad of different medications. I doubt Valerian would be suitable for me,, or any other herbal remedy.
Gad, it's as though you've channeled my sleep patterns. Some nights, regardless of what I do, meditate, listen to sleep music, I just can't fall asleep. Or I sleep for an hour, then am wide awake...repeat...
I've tried herbal supplements, but each time, they stopped working: Valerian, melatonin, chamomile. Ended up with Zoplicone and would take a quarter/half a pill just to break the pattern. Trouble is the last time I took half a pill, I ended up feeling very very dizzy, but could not fall asleep. Haven't taken one since.
I'm just glad I'm retired and can cancel plans if I need to and I don't have to drive to get groceries...whew....
Oddly what often works for me, is watching tv....