Hello. I had TBI 20 years ago TBI that most likely caused sleep problems but it seems it is gradually worsening at 27 even when taking measures improve to sleep. Last Tuesday I started taking SSRI prescribed by psychiatrist, Citalopram. Even half dose cause weird effects and even stronger insomnia for two days so before taking full dose I talked with doctor about stopping these dangerous drugs since I wanted to try safer supplements first. So I got melatonin 3mg tablets which I divided into four parts (higher than 1mg doses can also cause insomnia, even 0.3mg is recommended). So first night after taking 0.75mg I got not ideal full 8 hour but at least improved sleep through it may have been fatique build up from previous insomnia nights, I was feeling groggy in the morning. Second night I took same dose and didn't sleep until 3am. So then I took same dose more and still I didn't sleep till like 5pm. Maybe SSRI still have effect?
It's just so crazy that my brother in same rooms sleeps well while can't even when living healthy lifestyle, exercising much more. There still might deficiency of vitamin D since I accidentally broke quartz lamp so I'm going to take D3 supplements to see if that helps.

Insomnia is a big problem for many. It helps to try to identify the causes. For some, they are too sensitive to stimuli so they do not fall asleep because their brain is kept awake by the ticking of a clock or a bed that is not comfortable or cool feet or any such stimulation. Reducing those stimulations can help. If I get caught hear the clock or other sound, I put ear plugs in.

Some need nutrition supplements. Magnesium is a common need. Mag citrate or other magnesium (not mag oxide) an hour before bed is good.

You could also try a small dose of 5-HTP (50 to 100 mgs) an hour or two before bed. 5-HTP becomes serotonin and melatonin. The serotonin has a calming benefit. Do not take 5-HTP if you are taking normal dose SSRI unless your psychiatrists agrees.

Some need a boost to their blood sugar so a small snack of complex carbs and protein may help. For me cheese and crackers or a banana with peanut butter works well.

I also take gabapentin. It helps my nervous system 'let go' and reduces leg and body twitches.

I had this problem for almost 2 months after my MVA (motor vehicle accident).
Notice that i did not mention "concussion" because no doctors have confirmed or even come close to this diagnosis even though almost all symptoms i have points to PCS, plus with the guidance of the good people here like Mark and Bud to name a few.

I found something helpful when i was travelling in Vietnam and its called "Lotus Plumule". Its drank the way tea is and when i tried it for the first time i had the best sleep for the first time since my accident.

Sorry to hear of your long battle with sleep issues. Although I used to have insomnia during my first year of recovery I mostly have overcome this. However, for 1-3 days after doing too much or being overstimulated, I have great difficulty, despite being tired, falling asleep... it feels as if my brain is stuck in an "on" position.

Anyway, of all the things I've tried, a THC-oil has been the best help for getting and remaining asleep. I take it at 9 pm-ish and usually am asleep by 11ish. Unlike melatonin, the THC helps keep me asleep for most of the night. One down-side, though, is that if you need to get up for a pee, you are VERY drowsy. Worse, for me, I have great difficulty actually peeing despite having a painfully full bladder... lol. I actually have concerns about falling asleep while trying to pee... almost happened a few times.

Might be an option for you to help get past your insomnia.

MM

Good news that I was able to threat my insomnia with quetiapine and even half 25mg tablet was enough to knock me out I used it for week and noticed I have good long sleep, get more vivid dream and imagination.
But concentration and memory problems still remain. Today I slept for long time but felt sleepy, memory was bad.