Hi Camelia

Many people do not realise how much cancer affects the loved ones of those with cancer. Insomnia is a common problem for both patients and family. Ive found the following helpful. Regular bedtime even if you do not get off to sleep and a regular getting up time, set the alarm and drag yourself out of bed even if you don't feel like it. Get some physical exercise during the day even if just going for a walk,  eat a good balanced diet, don't drink coffee or tea after midday or drink alcohol close to bedtime. Stop looking at TV Computers or phone an hour before bedtime, read or listen to music or radio or do a crossword / jigsaw instead.  If you have someone close, talk about the things that are worrying you and preventing you from getting sleep. Although these have helped a great I still often wake with those racing thoughts or feeling of dread. I agree that drugs don't seem to be the answer either if you decide not to continue with the amitriptyline discuss it with your GP first as there can be withdrawal symptoms if not done correctly. 

Ed 

Hi Camelia

Many people do not realise how much cancer affects the loved ones of those with cancer. Insomnia is a common problem for both patients and family. Ive found the following helpful. Regular bedtime even if you do not get off to sleep and a regular getting up time, set the alarm and drag yourself out of bed even if you don't feel like it. Get some physical exercise during the day even if just going for a walk,  eat a good balanced diet, don't drink coffee or tea after midday or drink alcohol close to bedtime. Stop looking at TV Computers or phone an hour before bedtime, read or listen to music or radio or do a crossword / jigsaw instead.  If you have someone close, talk about the things that are worrying you and preventing you from getting sleep. Although these have helped a great I still often wake with those racing thoughts or feeling of dread. I agree that drugs don't seem to be the answer either if you decide not to continue with the amitriptyline discuss it with your GP first as there can be withdrawal symptoms if not done correctly. 

Ed