Just read your posts....what has your dr done for you? Not being able to sleep can aggravate depression, induce hallucinations, increase irritability...

I know it hurts, it sucks, it's very painful and tortuous.

Believe me I understand, the longest stretch I went through, with approx 3 hours sleep total, was SEVEN days... I thought I was going to die, i actually prayed for it so I feel I can empathize. It's not so much that i wanted to be dead, but going so long without sleep is horrid, I thirsted for it in the same way someone craves water when they are dehydrated. It is very painful, and you have my sympathy.

Meds can aggravate sleeplessness- you might check w/your doc, if you haven't already.

Unfortunately, the alcohol/other substances might also be aggravating it - that is how it affects me, personally. I had tried drinking to get to sleep, but found it sort of a "false sleep" - when I'm that drunk, it's not really a true, restorative sleep. But I feel you - I grabbed for anything that might relieve me.

Years later, I still go cycles of insomnia - I just finished a four day stretch of zero sleep. My PTSD and Bipolar cause this at least twice p/month, I can have this weekly. It's hard on the body and the mind; I have also visited suicide sites during these stretches.

The sleepless cycles happen so much, that I've had to cobble together a plan that works for me, but it is not always 100% effective (as evidenced by my recent 4-day sleep desert). What "works" for me may not work for you, but here it is:

I still go to work, do what I need to do. Try to keep to my traditional bedtime, without napping.

I drink LOTS of water during the day, try to eat as sparingly and healthy as I can ( i seem to crave carbs when I'm sleep-deprived).

- no heavy meals 4-6 hours before bedtime (digestion can interfere w/sleep)
- one cup coffe, during a.m., only - no other stimulants
- avoid alcohol, any substances except my psych meds
- shower about hour before bed
- cool, dark bedroom
- no electronic devices 4-6 hrs before bedtime
- some kind of "white noise" (although this can aggravate my hallucinations, I'm usually hallucinating anyway, so it's a wash). There's a great youtube channel, Texas Hi Def, where he has recordings I like to use: fan noise, bonnet hair dryer noise, rain on car roof, etc. I like that they are clean and clear, many loop for over an hour.
- one earphone w/calming, non-verbal music (I mean, no lyrics) that is non-stimulating, repetitive; very quiet volume
- comforting blanket, even stuffed animal (yeah, I know - but I need comfort, and I don't give a damn)

I've read forums outside of PC about people dealing w/insomnia, and it seems that the general consensus is that is a rough condition, it can be chronic, and it can take time to find something that will work for you. Some have recommended getting a sleeping pill prescription, just to break the cycle. Others have found sleep studies helpful.

Please know, I am wishing and hoping that you will find some respite, and be able to sleep. I understand the gallows humor this condition can generate; it makes me feel desperate, too. If you can, please see a doctor, even check in to the hospital (either Mental Health or regular Emergency).

In solidarity

-Bolivar