I know this is a very low level type of help for sleep. I know camomile tea is very calming and helps many people. There is also a "sleepytime tea" by celestial seasonings that helps some. Also, things like not watching TV, being on the computer, or other devices for at least an hour or so before you try and sleep is helpful. I agree as well with swimtime, melatonin is helpful, it can (or at least with me and many friends) gave us really vivid dreams or nightmares. If you absolutely are not helped by natural aids, etc. Ambien and other sleeping pills do the trick, they are very quick acting and even if you are in pain, you will fall asleep. I took ambien for about 4 years, not good, but I couldn't sleep. Ambien (it's generic now) knocks you out. You may be groggy in the morning. Also, you need to be aware that it pretty much does not allow REM sleep (so no dreams). When you stop a sleeping medicine like this, you go into "REM rebound" which is pretty scary as you have non stop dreams/nightmares as your brain is compensating for the lack of the REM sleep. I hope you can get the rest your brain and body so badly need.