I think sometimes people just need to accept that they won't get or need as much sleep as others.
Worrying about, or trying to force sleep makes things worse.
As long as i get about 4.5 to 5 hours a day, i'm fine.
I've always been first up as a child and same now as an adult. I sometimes envy people who have long lie in's.
However, it does mean i get more done.
It has it's advantages, like going fishing or doing early shifts. However, i don't do them these days, so just end up surfing the net. (why i tend to post very late/early mornings etc)
So now when i do need to get up early and haven't manged to get to sleep, i just accept that i'm going to be tired that day and not worry. Even if i then struggle to get to sleep that night, i just remind myself that i WILL sleep eventually.
I did go three days straight without sleep once, and started to suffer waking dreams/hallucinations. Slept like a baby the forth day!
One technique i can pass on came from somebody who meditates. He told me to imagine i'm in a circle, and the thoughts that are keeping me awake are like intruders. You have to learn to stop the thoughts by pushing them away. When your mind then becomes calmer, start thinking about your breathing.
Slow your breathing, but breath slightly deeper. Each time you blow out, count your breath. When you get to twenty, start the count again. Do this to you either fall asleep, or get bored. Either way, you will be more relaxed!
(If all else fails, just read this long post!!!) :)
