Hello,

You say you are not an insomniac but you certainly are not getting enough sleep and sleep deprivation over a long period of time is going to exacerbate the anxiety and sensitivity to noise. It only takes a few days of no sleep for psychotic symptoms to start.

I was initially going to suggest ear plugs to wear at night to block out all noise but I realised on reading further that your issues are more to do with your lack of sleep. Sleep deprivation will make anxiety and depression worse which leads to higher sensitivity, irritability etc and it becomes a vicious circle. I say depression because you view yourself as dole scum when infact it doesn't sound like you purposely put yourself in that position. You are on the dole because of difficulties in finding work. Have you considered that your mental health may be the reason why things are so hard for you? I think you could look into disability as well. But first you need to go to your doctor and even show him what you have written here. There may be a physical health issue that we can't pick up here online. Have you had blood tests done recently? If it's not a physical issue then you still need help with your anxiety and nerves and the inability to get a good night's sleep. I don't know if you are taking medications for your anxiety already but even if you are, I do think there needs to be an adjustment.