Being busy definitely helps me. That and being around other people (whom I would rather not witness me pulling at my hair). When you're having trouble sleeping, perhaps you could get something like a strand of "worry beads," which are kind of like a rosary, so that you can keep your hands occupied with something besides your hair. Not sure if that would help. Or wearing a thin pair of gloves to bed if it's not too warm. Just a thought.

Glad to hear the timer worked the other night. Keep at it!