There was a time when I was going through an extreme amount of stress and was depressed and not sleeping for days (4-5 days) at a time. I was wired and miserable and EXHAUSTED but unable to sleep. I finally gave in and went to the Dr. I didn't want to take any kind of sleeping medications but it proved to be the ONLY thing that would allow my body the rest that I needed.

My Dr. gave me Ambien. He gave me 30 pills and in a 3 year time period, I think I have taken 5 of them. They are very potent and will let you rest. They will also make you incredibly loopy (do NOT drive with this stuff!!! Also, if you sign online and type to folks, you may well find out some very interesting things in the morning that you have no recollection of writing). I didn't fall asleep right at first, my body was fighting me all the way with it but eventually (I think I was awake for 2-3 hours after I took it) I did sleep, all night long. I woke up without being groggy or overly tired and it really worked for me. If I had difficulty sleeping (more than a restless night here or there) I wouldn't hesitate to take it again.

If you are dead set against any kind of medication, I'd do what the others have suggested. Lots of activity outside, a warm shower, cool bedroom, hot tea (chamomile, decaf.), clean sheets, a nicely made bed, pillows just the way you like, a window open just a bit for fresh air...

Sweet Dreams.

Michelle