I have sleeping problems. Any ideas how to fall asleep faster and better?

[PiNkBaRbiE]

For one I am way to young to drink myself to sleep.
I am not interested in taking pills, because at most if i get a full nights sleep it will only be about 7 hours and I don't have a full 8 hours to devote to a sleeping pill.

Basically my problem is random nights i can and can't fall asleep and the next night i may be completely tired, but I'm still unable to doze off. And when I finally do i'll probably get 3-4 hours of sleep at the most. I know that this isn't healthy since I'm only 16, but does anybody have any ideas how to fall asleep faster and better?

[Mary S]

You Must Get Some Valerian Root...its Good For Your Health....and Also Count Sheep...it Works.....

[daydream_faery]

Drink a glass of warm milk, read a book and/or just close your eyes and try to shut out all thoughts (anything that is on your mind could be jotted down on some paper before you sleep). Maybe it is light that is a problem-you could turn off all lights (including lamps) and any just outside the door. If nothing you try seems to work, you should probably make an appointment to see your doctor.

Good luck! :)

[cindy]

Try watching TV before going to bed (nothing violent) as this will unwind you....Don't go on the net or play games as this stimulates the mind.
Try a mantra (sleep) (tired) (sleeping now) etc whatever word/s you choose say over and over as this helps shut off the mind chatter, which is probably the cause of your not sleeping as soon as your head hits the pillow.
Anxiety will keep the mind chatter going and keep you awake....try to relax more mentally.
A good vigorous day doing activities will wear you out so see if you can be more active in the daytime.