Hey Real,

How are you feeling today? I understand the depression. I just recently have surfaced from a long bout of depression/ insomnia actually. The first thing to know Real, is that you're not alone in this and you don't have to feel guilty for talking about it.

It often feels like a 'pity-party' when my head keeps looping on those old, negative tapes. Of course then if I talk to others about it I feel quite guilty for talking that way.
What I mean to say is that I hear you, I've been there, I get it.

When I am up all night I get lost in a book. It sounds boring at first, but there are enough of them to keep me satiated. If I feel too scattered, I will read pulp or trash (I will read guitar magazines) or articles. Going on the computer, watching tv or playing video games actually makes it harder to fall asleep because these things stimulate the brain. Although, if you're bored, by all means.

I find that meditation, relaxation and breathing exercises help me get to sleep. New age music, nature sounds of whale songs, rain storms or the ocean are helpful. I used to take meds to help me sleep but use natural alternatives instead.
Valerian root, passionflower, chamomille and catnip tea, lavender (which can be put in your pillow) and magnesium are very effective in helping me get to sleep.

I also find that if I exercise a lot during the day and spend enough time outside I will fall asleep quicker.

Is there something new you could try to do on the weekends? Take a cooking, fly fishing, drawing or yoga class? Hang out at the library or a coffee shop. Take long walks outside, find new places to hike and adventure. Bring a camera, sketchpad or journal with you. Redecorate your house, work on your car, start a new hobby like playing a musical instrument, knitting, astronomy or gardening. Find some sites of interest to you that have message forums similar to here (or on here) and make online friends, send emails like penpals, chat, voice talk on skype etc. Rent a bunch of movies make homemade pizza and have a movie marathon with yourself. Getting to know yourself can be fun (it doesn't have to be depressing). I find it liberating and enjoyable these days to spend time with myself.

Just some things that have worked for me to help my depression, insomnia and loneliness...Restless boredom is definitely uncomfortable. But I really just want you to know you're not alone.