So tired!

I see it is available in the UK from H&B, Boots and other firms

Lavender oil dabbed just inside the nostrils and on the pulse points of my wrist works every time for me Sunseeker.

I have a lavender pillow spray which I haven't tried yet.

I paid for this information and it works for me.

First of all, don't keep switching from one 'idea' to the next night after night.

Choose a thought/picture/counting etc which your happy with. Stick to that thought/picture etc. Do not deviate.

The theory is: most people will fall asleep while visualising whichever you choose. The brain starts to get the message ah, this is where I go to sleep

Mine is walking round my garden. I've been doing it for so long now that when I close my eyes I automatically go into 'my walk' I very rarely last more than a minute.

I had the same problem and my GP got me to sign up to the NHS Sleepio programme. It really helped me and I'm sleeping so much better now. I can't recommend it highly enough. you do it at home at your own leisure. It's very clever how it's tailored to your own personal problems. Please give it a go. (PS it's not the app with the same name, it's the online NHS recommended one.)

Think of six (or more, whatever you decide) girls' names beginning with A, then six boys' names beginning with A. Then six beginning with B, C and so on. This is effective even if very buzzy at night. You can refine it if you start remembering the names too easily...posh names and not-posh names, American or Australian sounding names and so on. But you must be disciplined, keep at it and not think of anything else.

petra I was interested in your post - I have a memory from my past, which unfolds a bit like a story, and is my 'go to' thought if I want to switch off at night - and I rarely get to the end of it!

Have you spoken to your GP? My grandson has Circadin tablets to help regulate his sleep pattern (a side effect of his epilepsy tablets). Worth asking - otherwise have you tried setting yourself a regular bedtime routine? Works for some people, no technology or tv at least an hour before bed, a warm drink before you go, lavender sachet under your pillow (if you like the scent), make sure your feet are warm (fluffy socks!).

Try a weighted blanket

I bought melatonin online from a reputable company and it is working, after calm meditation apps, magnesium, nytol both herbal and other, sleep sprays and prescription sleeping pills all failed! Good luck

I use a kindle with built in light and just read till my body passes out. If I switch it off in the 8 seconds that takes I'm wide awake again so I don't.

It may be helpful to have an adjustable electric blanket with a timer. I find getting into a warm bed helpful.

My GP told me to try piriton.

Unfortunately when I can’t sleep I itch. It works for me. Strange but true.